1980 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 32 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131.
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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 131 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1351 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2576 mm |
