2004 Fiat Punto 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 Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Punto. (84 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2004 Fiat Punto. 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 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Punto. (195 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Punto | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
