1998 Chrysler Neon vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1998 Chrysler Neon 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 4 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.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon, 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 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1981 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler Neon has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Neon | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | Neon | 131 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
