1976 Fiat 131 vs. 1981 Suzuki Fronte
To start off, 1981 Suzuki Fronte is newer by 5 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (53 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (29 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. 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, 1981 Suzuki Fronte, 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 (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (41 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Fronte.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 1981 Suzuki Fronte | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 131 | Fronte |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 29 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2160 mm |
