2008 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV is newer by 30 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 265 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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 GTV (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo GTV | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | GTV | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2500 mm |
