1984 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1984 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Fiat 131 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1984 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 1984 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
