1999 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 (120 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 145 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
