1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 34 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 282 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 129 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3410 mm |
