1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 360 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 131 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
