1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Opel Meriva is newer by 22 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Meriva (98 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Meriva weights approximately 350 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, 2004 Opel Meriva, 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, 2004 Opel Meriva (151 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2004 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
