2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2009 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mazda RX-7 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 1998 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda, 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (294 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 76 L |
