1975 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 24 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 360 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, 1999 Opel Meriva, 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (223 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |
