1968 Fiat 124 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1968 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 124 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 1968 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 124. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 124. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1968 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1968 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 124 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
