1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 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 55 more horse power than 2011 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 61 kg more than 2011 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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, 2011 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Fiat Panda. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2011 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2011 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:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 30 L |
