1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Baleno 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Baleno is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Baleno (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Baleno should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Baleno.
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 Suzuki Baleno, 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 Suzuki Baleno (178 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Baleno will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1999 Suzuki Baleno has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Suzuki Baleno will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1999 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 131 | Baleno |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2490 mm |
