1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 198 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.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
