1971 Fiat 124 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Mazda 323 (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 56 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
