1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1989 Lancia Thema is newer by 10 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), 1989 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lancia Thema (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lancia Thema weights approximately 195 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.
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, 1989 Lancia Thema, 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, 1989 Lancia Thema (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 1989 Lancia Thema | |
Make | Fiat | Lancia |
Model | 131 | Thema |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |