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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3.
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, 1978 Fiat 131 (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (94 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.
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 | 1124 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2500 mm |
