1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 24 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 373 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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Meriva (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 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 | 2710 mm |
