2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 1997 Renault Spider
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Spider would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1997 Renault Spider. (140 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 262 kg more than 1997 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 1997 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z, 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 1997 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | 350Z | Spider |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2350 mm |
