1996 Fiat 131 vs. 1984 Subaru DL
To start off, 1996 Fiat 131 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat 131 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1984 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1984 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat 131 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1984 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Subaru DL, 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 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Subaru DL. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 131 | 1984 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Fiat | Subaru |
| Model | 131 | DL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
