1988 Fiat Tipo vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 1988 Fiat Tipo 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 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Fiat Tipo (91 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Fiat Tipo should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1988 Fiat Tipo.
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 Fiat Tipo, 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 Fiat Tipo (190 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Fiat Tipo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat Tipo | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Tipo | 131 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1927 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
