2004 Fiat Idea vs. 1994 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Fiat Idea is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Idea weights approximately 165 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Idea, 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, 2004 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 1994 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1322 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1390 mm |
