1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131.
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, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2270 mm |
