1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
