1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (449 HP) has 396 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 570 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler Viper (664 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 569 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | Viper | 131 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 449 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
