1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 10 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 3,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (205 HP) has 152 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 600 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix 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. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | 131 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |
