1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 338 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, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 131 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2675 mm |
