2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2001 Daihatsu Copen 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 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. 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 Daihatsu Copen, 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, both vehicles can yield 108 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Fiat |
| Model | Copen | 131 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2500 mm |
