1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Fiat Panda, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat Panda 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:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2710 mm |
