1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1987 Mazda MX-6
To start off, 1987 Mazda MX-6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,182 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda MX-6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda MX-6 (145 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda MX-6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda MX-6 weights approximately 178 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mazda MX-6, 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, 1987 Mazda MX-6 (257 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda MX-6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1987 Mazda MX-6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | MX-6 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2182 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
