1980 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 408 kg more than 1980 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86.9 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 | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
