2003 Fiat Panda vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 443 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1158 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
