1996 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 184 kg more than 1996 Fiat 131.
Because 1996 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 1996 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
