1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2004 Nissan Sentra is newer by 23 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 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Sentra (126 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 90 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, 2004 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2004 Nissan Sentra (175 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2004 Nissan Sentra 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. 2004 Nissan Sentra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2004 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 131 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2540 mm |
