1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 235 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, 2006 Opel Astra, 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
