1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 30 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 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 2 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 140 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, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1160 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 |
