1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 28 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 1300. (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 1300.
Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 1961 Fiat 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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. Let's talk about torque, 1989 Mazda 323 (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 1300. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 1300 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 1300 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1481 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
