1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 16 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (105 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (136 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 1995 Mazda MX-3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 105 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2370 mm |
