2009 Fiat Idea vs. 1973 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2009 Fiat Idea is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Idea weights approximately 298 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Idea, 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, 2009 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Idea | 1973 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1246 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
