1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2006 Opel Meriva is newer by 32 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), 2006 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Meriva (99 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Meriva weights approximately 415 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, 2006 Opel Meriva, 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, 2006 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2006 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
