1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 1979 Mazda 626
To start off, 1979 Mazda 626 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 626 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1961 Fiat 1300.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1979 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1961 Fiat 1300 has manual transmission. 1961 Fiat 1300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 1300 | 1979 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 1300 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1481 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
