1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2000 Mazda 626
To start off, 2000 Mazda 626 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda 626 (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 626 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 626, 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, 2000 Mazda 626 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2000 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2000 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
