1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1949 Fiat 500
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1949 Fiat 500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1949 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1290 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2010 mm |
