1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 34 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 308 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 131 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2685 mm |
