2008 Fiat Idea vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Fiat Idea is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Idea. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Idea, 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 Fiat Idea (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Idea | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 6.7 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 | 1150 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
