1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 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 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 119 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
