1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 23 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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 320 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, 2002 Opel Astra, 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, 2002 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 131 | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |