1960 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1960 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1960 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 504 kg more than 1960 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-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, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fiat 500. (30 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1960 Fiat 500 | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 500 | MX-3 |
Year Released | 1960 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 500 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 18 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 30 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1960 mm | 2460 mm |