1983 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 330 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, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 131 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
