1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mazda 2
To start off, 2005 Mazda 2 is newer by 31 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 2 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 2 weights approximately 105 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, 2005 Mazda 2, 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, 2005 Mazda 2 (107 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 71.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
