2007 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 26 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 280 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, 2007 Opel Astra, 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, 2007 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1981 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2007 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2007 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Opel Astra | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Opel | Fiat |
| Model | Astra | 131 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
