1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 227 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Golf |
Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |