1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Honda Civic
To start off, 1989 Honda Civic is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Honda Civic (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131.
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, 1989 Honda Civic, 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, 1989 Honda Civic (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1989 Honda Civic | |
Make | Fiat | Honda |
Model | 131 | Civic |
Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1396 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 114 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |