2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 534 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
