1975 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1988 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Suzuki Samurai (62 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 145 kg more than 1975 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Suzuki Samurai (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 131 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2490 mm |
