1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra.
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, 1991 Opel Astra, 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, 1991 Opel Astra (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1016 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
