2008 Honda Civic vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (197 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 144 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (189 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 1979 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2008 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2008 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Honda | Fiat |
| Model | Civic | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2500 mm |
