1969 Fiat 124 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1969 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 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 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 124 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
