2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Seat 131
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Seat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1980 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Seat 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 1980 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Seat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1980 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Mazda | Seat |
| Model | 3 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2500 mm |
