1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2710 mm |
