1973 Fiat 132 vs. 2003 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2003 Skoda Octavia is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Skoda Octavia (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 132. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 280 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 132 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 1973 Fiat 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2003 Skoda Octavia (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 132. (135 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 132.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 132 | 2003 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Fiat | Skoda |
| Model | 132 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
