1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 32 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 154 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 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. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 131 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1259 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2525 mm |
