1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Lada Samara II
To start off, 2001 Lada Samara II is newer by 22 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2001 Lada Samara II. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2001 Lada Samara II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2001 Lada Samara II. 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, 2001 Lada Samara II, 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lada Samara II. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lada Samara II.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2001 Lada Samara II | |
| Make | Fiat | Lada |
| Model | 131 | Samara II |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
