1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 19 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 185 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, 1997 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, 1997 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
