1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 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 58 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1980 Renault 12 | |
Make | Fiat | Renault |
Model | 131 | 12 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 954 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |