1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 30 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 379 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, 2008 Volvo S60, 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
