1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2001 Skoda Octavia 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Skoda Octavia (99 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 275 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 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2001 Skoda Octavia has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Skoda Octavia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2001 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Fiat | Skoda |
| Model | 131 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
