1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 27 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Meriva (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 170 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, 2005 Opel Meriva, 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, 2005 Opel Meriva (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
