2006 Fiat Punto vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,307 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2006 Fiat Punto. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Fiat Punto weights approximately 658 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Fiat Punto. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Punto | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1783 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 64 L |
