1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Ritmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1981 Fiat Ritmo.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo, 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, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat Ritmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Ritmo | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Ritmo | 323 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
