1997 Fiat Panda vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Panda 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) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 454 kg more than 1997 Fiat Panda. 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, 1997 Fiat Panda, 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Panda | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 768 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 139 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
