1996 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 131. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 368 kg more than 1996 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Fiat 131 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | GTI |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |