1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Seat Ibiza
To start off, 2004 Seat Ibiza is newer by 26 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Seat Ibiza (63 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Seat Ibiza should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Seat Ibiza weights approximately 50 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, 2004 Seat Ibiza, 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, 2004 Seat Ibiza (112 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Seat Ibiza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2004 Seat Ibiza | |
| Make | Fiat | Seat |
| Model | 131 | Ibiza |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
