1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
