1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 80 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, 2008 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 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2590 mm |
