1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 271 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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2800 mm |
