1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 27 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 280 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 131 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
