1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2012 Fiat Idea is newer by 14 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat Idea (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Idea weights approximately 80 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2012 Fiat Idea (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2012 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 47 L |
