1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1979 Opel Kadett is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. 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, 1979 Opel Kadett, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
