1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 34 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 617 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 131 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1637 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1351 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2576 mm |
