1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 33 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 650 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 131 | 159 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 183 HP |
Torque | 94 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |