1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Mazda Laputa
To start off, 1998 Mazda Laputa is newer by 20 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda Laputa (57 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda Laputa should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1998 Mazda Laputa.
Because 1998 Mazda Laputa is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda Laputa will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda Laputa. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda Laputa. 1998 Mazda Laputa has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda Laputa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1998 Mazda Laputa | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | Laputa |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2370 mm |
