1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (99 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 140 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 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
