1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 1998 Fiat Barchetta 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Fiat Barchetta (130 HP) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 95 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 Fiat Barchetta, 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 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1998 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 130 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2280 mm |
