1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
