1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1986 Lotus Excel

To start off, 1986 Lotus Excel is newer by 7 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Excel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Excel (180 HP) has 127 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Excel should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lotus Excel weights approximately 212 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Lotus Excel (224 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 Lotus Excel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 1986 Lotus Excel has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Lotus Excel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications: