2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. Both 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider and 1978 Mazda 626 are equipped with a 1,970 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
