1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 1981 Mazda 121 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 121 (86 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda 121 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | 121 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 86 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |