1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Honda Civic
To start off, 2001 Honda Civic is newer by 25 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Honda Civic (127 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Honda Civic weights approximately 307 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. 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, 2001 Honda Civic, 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, 2001 Honda Civic (119 Nm @ 5900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2001 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Fiat | Honda |
| Model | 131 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 127 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
