2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 25 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 3,178 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (247 HP) has 194 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 300 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 147 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
