1961 Fiat 2300 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 2300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 2300 would be higher. At 2,277 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Fiat 2300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 2300. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 2300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 44 kg more than 1961 Fiat 2300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 2300 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 1961 Fiat 2300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1961 Fiat 2300 (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1961 Fiat 2300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 2300 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 2300 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2277 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 200 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 | 1266 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
