1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Renault Clio
To start off, 2002 Renault Clio 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Clio (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 206 kg more than 2002 Renault Clio.
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 Renault Clio, 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 Renault Clio (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2002 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
