1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Skoda Fabia
To start off, 2005 Skoda Fabia is newer by 31 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Skoda Fabia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Skoda Fabia (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Skoda Fabia should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Skoda Fabia weights approximately 245 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, 2005 Skoda Fabia, 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, 2005 Skoda Fabia (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Skoda Fabia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2005 Skoda Fabia | |
| Make | Fiat | Skoda |
| Model | 131 | Fabia |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
