2008 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Buick LaCrosse 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 567 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 Buick LaCrosse, 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 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2008 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Buick LaCrosse | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Buick | Fiat |
| Model | LaCrosse | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2500 mm |
