1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 155 kg more than 1977 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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, 1996 Opel Vectra (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
