1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Renault Espace
To start off, 2007 Renault Espace is newer by 29 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, 2007 Renault Espace (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131.
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, 2007 Renault Espace, 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, 2007 Renault Espace (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2007 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2007 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |
