1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Renault Espace
To start off, 1999 Renault Espace is newer by 18 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Espace (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Espace weights approximately 499 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, 1999 Renault Espace, 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, 1999 Renault Espace (208 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1999 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
