1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Lancia Phedra
To start off, 2002 Lancia Phedra is newer by 24 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 2,944 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lancia Phedra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lancia Phedra (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lancia Phedra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lancia Phedra weights approximately 570 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, 2002 Lancia Phedra, 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, 2002 Lancia Phedra (291 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Lancia Phedra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2002 Lancia Phedra | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 131 | Phedra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 2944 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2830 mm |
