1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Honda Civic
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic is newer by 15 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), 1996 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Civic (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic.
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, 1996 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1996 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Fiat | Honda |
| Model | 131 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
