1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 34 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 615 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (355 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 74.8 mm |
| 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 | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
