2003 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Charade 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Daihatsu Charade (57 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Daihatsu Charade should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2003 Daihatsu Charade.
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 Daihatsu Charade, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Daihatsu Charade. (90 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Daihatsu Charade. 2003 Daihatsu Charade has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Daihatsu Charade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Daihatsu Charade | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Fiat |
| Model | Charade | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 958 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2500 mm |
