1979 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 86 kg more than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat Ritmo | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Ritmo | 323 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1714 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
