2004 Fiat Panda vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Panda (260 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.3 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 61 L |
