1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour 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 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForFour weights approximately 5 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 Smart ForFour, 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 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 131 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 47 L |
