1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 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 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 330 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1976 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1976 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1350 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 |
