1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 29 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 142 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, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit 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. 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2010 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
