2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 190 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 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (207 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
Model | 156 | 131 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2444 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 162 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 207 Nm | 144 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |