1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2010 Mazda 2
To start off, 2010 Mazda 2 is newer by 32 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 2 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131.
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, 2010 Mazda 2, 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, 2010 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2010 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
