1981 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 639 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | Panda | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 843 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 58 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |