1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1970 Rover P5B

To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,527 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Rover P5B (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Rover P5B should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Rover P5B weights approximately 390 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.

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, 1970 Rover P5B (295 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1970 Rover P5B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1970 Rover P5B has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Fiat 131 1970 Rover P5B
Make Fiat Rover
Model 131 P5B
Year Released 1978 1970
Engine Size 2444 cc 3527 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 75 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 144 Nm 295 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1190 kg 1580 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2820 mm