1983 Fiat 131 vs. 1968 Saab 99
To start off, 1983 Fiat 131 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,709 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Saab 99 (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Saab 99 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1983 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Saab 99, 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, 1968 Saab 99 (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 131 | 1968 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Fiat | Saab |
| Model | 131 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
