2008 Fiat Punto vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,299 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Punto. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 430 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 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, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 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 2008 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Punto | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
