1975 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 215 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, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 2005 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2700 mm |
