2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 22 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 445 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 166 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
