1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (137 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 228 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (183 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
