2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2012 Fiat Panda. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 3 | Panda |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 35 L |
