1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mazda Marathon
To start off, 2005 Mazda Marathon is newer by 24 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 2,260 cc, 2005 Mazda Marathon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 412 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
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, 2005 Mazda Marathon (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda Marathon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mazda Marathon | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | Marathon |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 10 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1517 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
