1980 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 300 kg more than 1980 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L, 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Fiat | Saturn |
| Model | 131 | L |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
