2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 301 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 Kia Spectra, 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 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Kia | Fiat |
| Model | Spectra | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
