1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1282 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
