1977 Fiat 132 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 132. (59 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 132 weights approximately 142 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1977 Fiat 132 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 1977 Fiat 132. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 132. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 132.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 132 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 132 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
