1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 35 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 2,488 cc, 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 160 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, 2009 Mazda 6, 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2009 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2488 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
