1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 29 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 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 450 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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
