1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 468 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, 2007 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
