1996 Chevrolet APV vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet APV is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet APV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet APV (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet APV should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet APV weights approximately 510 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet APV, 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, 1996 Chevrolet APV (238 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet APV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1996 Chevrolet APV has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet APV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet APV | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | APV | 131 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2500 mm |
