1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 1989 Volvo 480 is newer by 11 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, 1989 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480.
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, 1989 Volvo 480, 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, 1989 Volvo 480 (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Fiat | Volvo |
Model | 131 | 480 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |