1984 Fiat 131 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Fiat 131 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Fiat 131 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Mazda 323 (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat 131 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2460 mm |
