1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 17 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (79 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 109 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara 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, 1998 Suzuki Vitara 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1998 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 131 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2490 mm |
