2008 Fiat Panda vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 20 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
