2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 303 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 RX-7. 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (231 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 77 L |
