1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 28 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo V50 weights approximately 538 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, 2009 Volvo V50, 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, 2009 Volvo V50 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
Make | Fiat | Volvo |
Model | 131 | V50 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1598 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |