2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 31 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 415 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 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (231 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | Spider | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2500 mm |
