1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 35 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 2,360 cc (16 cylinders), 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (166 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 335 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 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (197 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 131 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 166 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2635 mm |
