1981 Ferrari 208 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 208 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 208 (153 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Ferrari 208 (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 208 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Fiat |
| Model | 208 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2500 mm |
