1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1982 Fiat 131
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 (275 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1982 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 166 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1365 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
