2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 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 98 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 414 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
