1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500.
Because 1973 Fiat 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500. 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2005 Mazda MX-Flexa | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | MX-Flexa |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2760 mm |
