1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 55 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131.
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 Polo, 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, 1974 Fiat 131 (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
