1968 Citroen DS vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Citroen DS (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. 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, 1968 Citroen DS, 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, 1968 Citroen DS (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1968 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Citroen DS | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Citroen | Fiat |
Model | DS | 131 |
Year Released | 1968 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 98 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 113 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2500 mm |