1971 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,175 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen DS (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | DS | 131 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2175 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2500 mm |
