2000 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2000 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
