1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 50 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.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 131 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |