1968 Volvo 120 vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP) has 44 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 120 | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Volvo | Fiat |
| Model | 120 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 111 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2500 mm |
