1998 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 229 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 159 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |