1975 Fiat 131 vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 1990 Renault 21 is newer by 15 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Renault 21 (75 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Renault 21 weights approximately 55 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 1975 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 1975 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21, 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, 1990 Renault 21 (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1990 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2820 mm |
