1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2011 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2011 Nissan Versa is newer by 30 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Versa (107 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Versa weights approximately 89 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, 2011 Nissan Versa, 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, 2011 Nissan Versa (150 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2011 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 131 | Versa |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1149 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2601 mm |
