1996 Fiat Marea vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Fiat Marea is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,581 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Marea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Marea (104 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Marea should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Marea weights approximately 328 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Marea, 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, 1996 Fiat Marea (144 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Marea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Marea | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Marea | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
