1961 Fiat 850 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 47 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, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 567 kg more than 1961 Fiat 850.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 850 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 613 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
