Italy vs Japan — 1983 vs 1985
| Ritmo Abarth 130 TC | 323 GTX Turbo 4WD | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 132 hp |
| Torque | 131 lb-ft | 142 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,995 cc | 1,597 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.8 sec | 7.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.9 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,116 lbs | 2,337 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,440 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,990 mm | 3,990 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $12,999 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1983 Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130 TC brings higher top speed, lighter weight to the table, and the 1985 Mazda 323 GTX Turbo 4WD answers with quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1983 Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130 TC versus 1985 Mazda 323 GTX Turbo 4WD is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1983 Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130 TC producing 130 hp and the 1985 Mazda 323 GTX Turbo 4WD delivering 132 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat Ritmo uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,995 cc, while the Mazda 323 GTX relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8-valve turbo with 1,597 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Mazda 323 GTX Turbo 4WD edges ahead at 7.8 seconds versus 7.8 seconds. The Fiat Ritmo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 221 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.