1994 Fiat Punto vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1994 Fiat Punto. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 94 kg more than 1994 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Fiat Punto, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Fiat Punto. (137 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Fiat Punto | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | 3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
