1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 34 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1345 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 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3010 mm |
