1968 Fiat 850 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 2 (81 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 850. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 2 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1968 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 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 (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 850. (65 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 850 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 45 L |
