2004 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 6 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, 2004 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Fiat Barchetta.
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, both vehicles can yield 162 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2004 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 2004 Fiat Barchetta 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:
| 2004 Fiat Barchetta | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Barchetta | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
