1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Bora
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Bora is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Bora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Bora (108 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Bora should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Bora weights approximately 315 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Bora, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Bora (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Bora will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1999 Volkswagen Bora | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Bora |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
