1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Proton Perdana
To start off, 2002 Proton Perdana 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Proton Perdana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Proton Perdana (136 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Proton Perdana should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Proton Perdana weights approximately 280 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 Proton Perdana, 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 Proton Perdana (176 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Proton Perdana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2002 Proton Perdana | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 131 | Perdana |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 136 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
