2003 Fiat Idea vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Idea. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Idea would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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 Pontiac Solstice (254 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | Idea | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 49 L |
