1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Mazda 6
To start off, 2001 Mazda 6 is newer by 23 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda 6 (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 6 weights approximately 320 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mazda 6 (311 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2001 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
