1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Fiat 131 (64 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1987 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, 1977 Fiat 131 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
