1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | 323 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |