2006 Fiat Idea vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Fiat Idea is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2006 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Fiat Idea weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Idea, 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 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Idea | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | 121 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
