1971 Fiat 128 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 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 128. (63 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 128. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 Fiat 128. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 128. (83 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 128.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 128 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 128 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |
