1977 Fiat 126 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 126 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 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1977 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 126. 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 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |
