1980 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2006 Toyota Matrix is newer by 26 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 335 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, 2006 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2006 Toyota Matrix (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 2006 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | 131 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
