2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1976 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500, 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 Fiat 500 (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1976 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2500 mm |
