1996 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 131. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1059 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 Routan, 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 Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 131. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 131 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 78 L |
