1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 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, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |
