1991 Fiat Cinquecento vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1991 Fiat Cinquecento is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1991 Fiat Cinquecento. (41 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Fiat Cinquecento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 173 kg more than 1991 Fiat Cinquecento. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Fiat Cinquecento, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Fiat Cinquecento. (66 Nm). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Fiat Cinquecento.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Fiat Cinquecento | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Cinquecento | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 677 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2320 mm |
