1996 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP) has 164 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 626 kg more than 1996 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda RX-7 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2430 mm |
