1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 34 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 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 244 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
