1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 38 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), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 131 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2685 mm |
