1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 25 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 120 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Holden Astra, 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, 1999 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Holden |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
