1971 Fiat 130 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 130 would be higher. At 2,866 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 130. (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 130.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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 216 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. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 130 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 130 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 130 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 130 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2866 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
