1978 Seat 131 vs. 1996 Suzuki Esteem
To start off, 1996 Suzuki Esteem is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Suzuki Esteem (70 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Seat 131. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Esteem should accelerate faster than 1978 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Seat 131 weights approximately 424 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Esteem.
Because 1978 Seat 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 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Esteem, 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, 1996 Suzuki Esteem (128 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Seat 131. (113 Nm). This means 1996 Suzuki Esteem will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Seat 131 | 1996 Suzuki Esteem | |
| Make | Seat | Suzuki |
| Model | 131 | Esteem |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2490 mm |
