1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 24 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 670 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, 2005 Renault Megane, 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, 2005 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
