1997 Fiat Punto vs. 1975 Fiat 131
To start off, 1997 Fiat Punto is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Fiat 131 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1997 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1975 Fiat 131 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Punto. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Punto | 1975 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Punto | 131 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1020 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 |
