1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 Volkswagen Golf, 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1984 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 113 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |