1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 28 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 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForFour (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131.
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, 2005 Smart ForFour, 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 Smart ForFour (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131. 2005 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1977 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1977 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 131 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
