1961 Fiat 2300 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Mazda 626 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 2300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 2300 would be higher. At 2,278 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Fiat 2300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Fiat 2300 (115 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Fiat 2300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Fiat 2300 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 2300 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 2300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626, 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, 1961 Fiat 2300 (188 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1961 Fiat 2300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 2300 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 2300 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2278 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
