2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 880 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-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 1978 Mazda RX-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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | Spider | RX-3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |