1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. 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 (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | 323 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |