1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (137 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2005 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 370 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131.
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, 2005 Opel 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 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 13.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |
