1981 Fiat Panda vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 702 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat Panda | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | Panda | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 843 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 58 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1392 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 61 L |