When news of a potential alliance between Mazda and Alfa Romeo surfaced recently, saying the two companies would collaborate on the next Alfa Romeo Spider, we couldn’t help but think that sounded like a perfect automotive match. The Alfa Romeo Spider has always been one of the most desirable drop-top roadsters since the 1960s along with its ‘Duetto’ nameplate.

In recent decades, however, the Spider (along with most other Alfa Romeos) has had to make do with a front-wheel drive layout. This new alliance, and the promise of a new Alfa Romeo Spider by 2014/15, will change this recent trend, however, as the Alfa Romeo Spider will finally get the rear-wheel drive layout it so deserves.

Based on the chassis and suspension of the next generation Mazda MX-5, the Spider will have its own styling and make use of its own engine and gearbox combination. The engine in question will most likely be the 4-cylinder, 1750 TBI currently found in the range topping Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV with 173 kW. Although, we suspect it could be de-tuned to around 147 kW to make the power more usable, as it was in the most recent Alfa Romeo 159 1750 TBI.

Crucially, however, for the first time in two decades, the power will be sent to the rear wheels via either a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional Alfa Romeo seven-speed TCT automatic. The goal weight of the car is said to be around 1 100 kg thanks to the extensive use of lightweight aluminium. That sounds fabulous, but it will undoubtedly push the asking price up substantially.

The closest design influence we can speculate on at the moment must be something like the ‘2uettottanta Concept’ from Pininfarina shown here, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2010. Further reports state that the car could even revive the famous ‘Duetto’ nameplate. We cant wait.