1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 190 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
