2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 27 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 555 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 159 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
