1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 35 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Smart ForTwo (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131. 2012 Smart ForTwo 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. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 131 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
