1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volkswagen Passat (70 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 75 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. 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, 1987 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, 1987 Volkswagen Passat (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
