1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1968 Lancia Fulvia
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lancia Fulvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lancia Fulvia would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lancia Fulvia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lancia Fulvia (101 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lancia Fulvia should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Lancia Fulvia weights approximately 5 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Lancia Fulvia, 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, 1968 Lancia Fulvia (120 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1968 Lancia Fulvia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1968 Lancia Fulvia | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 131 | Fulvia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |
