1982 Fiat 131 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 295 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 131 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
