1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (175 HP) has 122 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 190 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.
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, 1991 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
