1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 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 V70 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 421 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 V70, 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 V70 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 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 V70 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1611 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
