1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Espace 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Espace weights approximately 870 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 Renault Espace, 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 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2008 Renault Espace 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. 2008 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2008 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2810 mm |
