2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 74 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Golf | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
