1959 Fiat 1200 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 50 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1200. (62 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 585 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1200. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 1200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
