1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 31 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 145 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2009 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Fiat | Hyundai |
| Model | 131 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 119 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 153 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 | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
