1971 Fiat 124 vs. 1996 Mazda Midge
To start off, 1996 Mazda Midge is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,323 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda Midge is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda Midge (67 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda Midge should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda Midge weights approximately 60 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda Midge, 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, 1996 Mazda Midge (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda Midge will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 1996 Mazda Midge | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | Midge |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
