1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 1205 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 126 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
