2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 440 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |