2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 415 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | 131 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2500 mm |
