2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 90 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1480 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
