2009 Citroen C5 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 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 Citroen C5 (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 403 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 C5, 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 C5 (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C5 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2179 cc | 2444 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2500 mm |
