1983 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1983 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 will offer significantly more control. 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 S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1983 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1983 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 131 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 131 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 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 | 70 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
