1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (138 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 313 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, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
