1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 222 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Cavalier | 131 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
