1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 26 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 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 551 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, 2005 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (241 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2800 mm |
