1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 203 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | 3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |