1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 286 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 894 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |