1980 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,307 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP) has 179 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 159 kg more than 1980 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 232 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
