2003 Fiat Palio vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Fiat Palio is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Palio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Palio (79 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Palio should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Palio weights approximately 145 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Palio, 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 Fiat Palio (196 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Palio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Palio | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Palio | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2500 mm |
