1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Fiat Marea
To start off, 1996 Fiat Marea is newer by 17 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 1,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Marea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Marea (145 HP) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Marea should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Marea weights approximately 290 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, 1996 Fiat Marea, 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, 1996 Fiat Marea (186 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Marea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1996 Fiat Marea | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Marea |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
