1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Saturn ION
To start off, 2007 Saturn ION 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Saturn ION (145 HP) has 92 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saturn ION weights approximately 364 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, 2007 Saturn ION, 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 Saturn ION (203 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2007 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Fiat | Saturn |
| Model | 131 | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
