1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 1979 Fiat 131 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 400 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | Valiant | 131 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2500 mm |
