1999 Fiat Punto vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1999 Fiat Punto. (130 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1999 Fiat Punto. 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, 1999 Fiat Punto, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Fiat Punto. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Fiat Punto | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
