1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 22 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 131 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 131 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
