1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 315 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 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |