1996 Fiat Palio vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Palio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Palio would be higher. At 1,581 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Palio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Palio. (92 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Palio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1996 Fiat Palio. 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, 1996 Fiat Palio, 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Palio. (127 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Palio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Palio | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Palio | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
