2002 Pontiac Vibe vs. 1981 Fiat 131

To start off, 2002 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 21 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, 2002 Pontiac Vibe (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 242 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, 2002 Pontiac Vibe, 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, 2002 Pontiac Vibe (175 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1981 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Vibe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Pontiac Vibe 1981 Fiat 131
Make Pontiac Fiat
Model Vibe 131
Year Released 2002 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1800 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 167 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1347 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1400 mm