2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1979 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (88 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1979 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 65 L |
