1959 Fiat 1200 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1200. (53 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1959 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Fiat 1200 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 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1200. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Fiat 1200 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 1200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
