1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Skoda Fabia
To start off, 2006 Skoda Fabia 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Skoda Fabia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Skoda Fabia (99 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Skoda Fabia should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Skoda Fabia weights approximately 255 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 Skoda Fabia, 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 Skoda Fabia (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Skoda Fabia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2006 Skoda Fabia | |
| Make | Fiat | Skoda |
| Model | 131 | Fabia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
