1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 20 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 1,712 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 (129 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 260 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 131 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 129 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |
