1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 644 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131.
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 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2012 Volvo S80 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. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2776 mm |
