1976 Fiat 131 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (53 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1976 Fiat 131 (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Fiat 131 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Golf |
Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 94 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |