1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 36 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 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 112 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 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Fiat 131 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Polo |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1132 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1682 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |