2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 28 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 615 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
Model | 159 | 131 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |