2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Panda weights approximately 10 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Panda (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 65 L |
