1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 4 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 1,455 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (62 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1977 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1977 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
