1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 273 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 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
