1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (164 HP) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 263 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, 2012 Kia Soul, 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, 2012 Kia Soul (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Soul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2012 Kia Soul | |
Make | Fiat | Kia |
Model | 131 | Soul |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 164 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1228 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |