2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 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 89 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Spider | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
