2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1984 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1984 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1984 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 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 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1984 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
