1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1994 Fiat Vivace
To start off, 1994 Fiat Vivace is newer by 15 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 1,372 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Fiat Vivace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Fiat Vivace (62 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Fiat Vivace should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1994 Fiat Vivace.
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, 1994 Fiat Vivace, 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, 1994 Fiat Vivace (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1994 Fiat Vivace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1994 Fiat Vivace | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Vivace |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1372 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2230 mm |
