1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2002 Volvo XC90 is newer by 21 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo XC90 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1054 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 2002 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volvo XC90 (351 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2002 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2002 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 2114 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2800 mm |
