1997 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. 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, 1997 Fiat Barchetta, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Barchetta | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Barchetta | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2710 mm |
