2008 Tata Sumo vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Tata Sumo 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 2,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Tata Sumo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Tata Sumo (69 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Tata Sumo should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Tata Sumo weights approximately 620 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 2008 Tata Sumo is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Tata Sumo will offer significantly more control. 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 Tata Sumo (223 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Tata Sumo 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 Tata Sumo has manual transmission. 2008 Tata Sumo 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 Tata Sumo | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Tata | Fiat |
| Model | Sumo | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2956 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4258 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1726 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1925 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2425 mm | 2500 mm |
