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 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 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 150 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 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 20 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 | 1774 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
