1975 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 480 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1975 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
