1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500.
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 Fiat 500, 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Fiat 500 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. 2012 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 131 | 500 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 70.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 78.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |