1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Honda Civic
To start off, 1999 Honda Civic 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Honda Civic (167 HP @ 7600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda Civic weights approximately 295 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 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (166 Nm @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1999 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Fiat | Honda |
| Model | 131 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
