2008 Fiat Punto vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Fiat Punto is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Punto. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2008 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Punto. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Punto. 2008 Fiat Punto has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Fiat Punto will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Punto | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
