1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 421 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, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (236 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
