1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2000 Rover 45
To start off, 2000 Rover 45 is newer by 22 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Rover 45 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Rover 45 (118 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Rover 45 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Rover 45 weights approximately 190 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, 2000 Rover 45, 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, 2000 Rover 45 (163 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2000 Rover 45 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2000 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Fiat | Rover |
| Model | 131 | 45 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
