1983 Fiat 131 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Fiat 131 (70 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Fiat 131 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1983 Fiat 131 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1983 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 131 | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
