1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 03-Sep 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 570 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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2008 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Fiat | Saab |
| Model | 131 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
