1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 818 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500, 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, 2012 Fiat 500 (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 818 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2310 mm |
