1985 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1985 Fiat Panda. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1985 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1985 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1985 Fiat Panda 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:
| 1985 Fiat Panda | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | 323 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
