1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500.
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 Fiat 500, 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 131 | 500 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 70.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 78.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 35 L |