1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Peugeot 405
To start off, 1989 Peugeot 405 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Peugeot 405 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1989 Peugeot 405. (64 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1989 Peugeot 405. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Peugeot 405 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Because 1989 Peugeot 405 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Peugeot 405 will offer significantly more control. 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 Peugeot 405 (122 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Peugeot 405 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1989 Peugeot 405 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 131 | 405 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 64 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
