1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
