1998 BMW 323 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 487 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 323 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
