1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1986 Fiat Panda. 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | 323 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2620 mm |
