1995 Fiat Panda vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,307 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP) has 198 more horse power than 1995 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1995 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1995 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Fiat Panda | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 232 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
