2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 267 kg more than 2009 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda. 2009 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | RX-8 | Panda |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 30 L |
