2001 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1773 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
