1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForFour (74 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour 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, 2001 Smart ForFour, 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, 2001 Smart ForFour (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2001 Smart ForFour 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. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 131 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
