1961 Fiat 850 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 2 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 2 weights approximately 467 kg more than 1961 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 2 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 850 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 613 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3290 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 45 L |
