1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Proton 300
To start off, 2001 Proton 300 is newer by 24 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Proton 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Proton 300 (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Proton 300 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Proton 300 weights approximately 18 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, 2001 Proton 300, 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 Proton 300 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Proton 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2001 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 131 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
