1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 342 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, 2002 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Passat (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2002 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 2002 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Passat |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
Torque | 94 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |