1962 Fiat 500 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1962 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Fiat 500 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 485 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
