2007 Fiat Panda vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2007 Fiat Panda. (54 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 580 kg more than 2007 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Fiat Panda. (88 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Fiat Panda | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1107 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 7.2 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 | 840 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 61 L |
