1973 Fiat 132 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 132. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 132 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 1973 Fiat 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 132. (135 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 132.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 132 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 132 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
