1988 Fiat Panda vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1988 Fiat Panda is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1988 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Fiat Panda, 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Fiat Panda | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | Panda | 131 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 770 cc | 1367 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 33 HP | 71 HP |
Torque | 58 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 7.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2500 mm |