1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1979 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, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
