1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Toyota Avalon
To start off, 1999 Toyota Avalon is newer by 21 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 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Toyota Avalon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Avalon (210 HP) has 157 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Avalon should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Avalon weights approximately 716 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, 1999 Toyota Avalon, 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, 1999 Toyota Avalon (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota Avalon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1999 Toyota Avalon 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. 1999 Toyota Avalon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1999 Toyota Avalon | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | 131 | Avalon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
