1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 31 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 2,460 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (129 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 259 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (341 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Caravelle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2460 cc |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 129 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 341 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1224 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1960 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3010 mm |