1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1998 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 19 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131.
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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (181 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 1998 Hyundai Sonata 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. 1998 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1998 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Fiat | Hyundai |
| Model | 131 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
