2004 Fiat Idea vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Fiat Idea. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Fiat Idea would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 272 kg more than 2004 Fiat Idea. 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, 2004 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
