1978 Fiat Strada vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 563 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada. 1978 Fiat Strada has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat Strada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Strada | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Strada | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2639 mm |
