1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1981 Fiat Strada
To start off, 1981 Fiat Strada is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Strada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Strada (125 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Strada should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1981 Fiat Strada.
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, 1981 Fiat Strada, 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, 1981 Fiat Strada (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat Strada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 1981 Fiat Strada | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 131 | Strada |
Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |