1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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 1,308 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP) has 175 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 100 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |
