2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 490 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | 818 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2320 mm |
