1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 18 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 295 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, 1996 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1996 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1996 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Fiat | Hyundai |
| Model | 131 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
