2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 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 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (67 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 158 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 Citroen C3, 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 Citroen C3 (161 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C3 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1123 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2500 mm |
