1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 241 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, 2012 Volvo C30, 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |
