1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 35 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, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 131 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
