1975 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Vauxhall Meriva
To start off, 2005 Vauxhall Meriva 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 Vauxhall Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Vauxhall Meriva (87 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Vauxhall Meriva should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Vauxhall Meriva weights approximately 310 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 Vauxhall 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, 2005 Vauxhall Meriva (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Vauxhall Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 2005 Vauxhall Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| 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 | 53 HP | 87 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
