1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1983 Fiat 131
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Fiat 131 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
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 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 1983 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | C21 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2500 mm |
