1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
