1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
