1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 416 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1381 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2651 mm |
