1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 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 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1977 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
