2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Fiat Grande Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. (118 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 64 kg more than 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Grande 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, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Grande Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | RX-8 | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
