1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1999 Opel Meriva is newer by 20 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 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 183 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, 1999 Opel Meriva, 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 131 | Meriva |
Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1684 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |