2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (257 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (212 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 279 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 257 HP | 212 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7500 RPM |
Torque | 322 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1411 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2703 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |