1955 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 Mazda 626 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1955 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1955 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1955 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fiat 500 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 1955 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 626, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fiat 500 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
