1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 1988 Dodge Spirit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (150 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 351 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Spirit | 131 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2500 mm |
