1976 Fiat 131 vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 1978 Simca Horizon is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (58 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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, 1976 Fiat 131 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
| Make | Fiat | Simca |
| Model | 131 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 65 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
