1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Vectra (122 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Vectra weights approximately 395 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 Vectra, 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 Vectra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 122 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
