1961 Fiat 500 vs. 2009 Mazda 2
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,347 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 2 (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 2 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1961 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2, 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 2 (122 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 500 | 2009 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2500 mm |
