1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 252 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 2009 Nissan Xterra 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 131 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
