1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 412 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
