1961 Fiat 850 vs. 2000 Mazda 323
To start off, 2000 Mazda 323 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 850. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 323 weights approximately 534 kg more than 1961 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 850 | 2000 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 613 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
