2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 210 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, 2001 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
