1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 855 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 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 1959 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 500 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Abarth | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
