1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 19 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. 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, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1086 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |