1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 75 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. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1974 Fiat 131 (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (114 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
