1996 Fiat Punto vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 352 kg more than 1996 Fiat Punto. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Punto | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2650 mm |
