1955 Citroen 2CV vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1955 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Citroen 2CV | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | 2CV | 131 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 424 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2500 mm |
