2008 BMW 328 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 BMW 328 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 328 (231 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 328 weights approximately 410 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 BMW 328, 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 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1981 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 328 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:
| 2008 BMW 328 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 328 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
