1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Magna 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 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Magna (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 265 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 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 Mitsubishi Magna (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna 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. 2002 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2002 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 131 | Magna |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2730 mm |
