1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1949 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Fiat 500 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 1949 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
