1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (231 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 510 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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (357 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Fiat | Saab |
| Model | 131 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
