1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1976 Renault 14
To start off, 1979 Fiat 131 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1976 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1976 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Renault 14, 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1976 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | 14 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2540 mm |
