1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Honda Civic
To start off, 2001 Honda Civic is newer by 20 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 1,672 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Honda Civic (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Honda Civic weights approximately 55 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, 2001 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, 2001 Honda Civic (153 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2001 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Fiat | Honda |
| Model | 131 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
