1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 453 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |
