1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1968 Volvo 145
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Volvo 145 (81 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volvo 145 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1968 Volvo 145 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1968 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1968 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | 145 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
