1962 Fiat 500 vs. 1994 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1994 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,845 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 678 kg more than 1962 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (157 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Fiat 500 | 1994 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 485 kg | 1163 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2460 mm |
