1994 Fiat Punto vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1994 Fiat Punto is newer by 16 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1994 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1994 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1994 Fiat Punto. 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, 1994 Fiat Punto, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Fiat Punto. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Fiat Punto | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Punto | 131 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2500 mm |
