1983 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Fiat 500
To start off, 2013 Fiat 500 is newer by 30 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 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Fiat 500 weights approximately 71 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, 2013 Fiat 500, 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, 2013 Fiat 500 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 131 | 2013 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2301 mm |
