1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (190 HP) has 137 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131.
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 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (242 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Fiat | Hyundai |
| Model | 131 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2794 mm |
