1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 180 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. 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, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
