1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis 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 2,186 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 600 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 Vel Satis, 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 Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2005 Renault Vel Satis 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. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 131 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2750 mm |
