1964 Fiat 500 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1964 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1964 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 532 kg more than 1964 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Fiat 500. 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 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Fiat 500 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 500 | 323 |
Year Released | 1964 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 499 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 22 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 36 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 546 kg | 1078 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2510 mm |