1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Vectra weights approximately 100 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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, 1988 Opel Vectra (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
