1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,918 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 1609 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
