2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 398 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
