1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 25 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 210 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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
