1991 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 13 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 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 (207 HP) has 154 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 475 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.
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, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 (289 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 164 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
