1996 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2007 Skoda Octavia is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Skoda Octavia (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 131. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 Fiat 131. 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, 2007 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2007 Skoda Octavia (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 131 | 2007 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Fiat | Skoda |
| Model | 131 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
