2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Renault Spider
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Spider would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Renault Spider. (140 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1997 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 1997 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Spider. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Spider |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2350 mm |
