2003 Fiat Punto vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto.
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, 2003 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 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 2003 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 110 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
