1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 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 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 213 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
