2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP) has 185 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
