1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1971 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Centura (119 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Centura weights approximately 150 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, 1971 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1971 Chrysler Centura 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. 1971 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1971 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Fiat | Chrysler |
| Model | 131 | Centura |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 119 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
