1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131.
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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | 323 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |