1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda 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 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2012 Fiat Panda.
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 Panda (145 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Panda 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 Panda | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82 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 | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 35 L |
