1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester is newer by 30 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 295 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 2008 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (245 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2008 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Fiat | Subaru |
| Model | 131 | Forester |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
