1989 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 (78 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo 33.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 (113 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 33 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
