1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1997 Lancia Delta
To start off, 1997 Lancia Delta is newer by 16 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 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Delta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Delta (102 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Delta should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Delta weights approximately 170 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. 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, 1997 Lancia Delta, 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, 1997 Lancia Delta (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Delta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1997 Lancia Delta | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 131 | Delta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |
