1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 23.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |