1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (125 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131.
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, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1779 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |