1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 36 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), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 585 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, 2012 Opel Astra, 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
