1951 BMW 340 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1951 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1951 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 BMW 340 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 BMW 340 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 340 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2500 mm |
