1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 323 (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (60 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 124 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Mazda 323 (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 876 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 |
