1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima is newer by 27 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Maxima (265 HP) has 212 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 609 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2006 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 131 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 265 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2830 mm |
