2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Because 1981 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 1981 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 1981 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Golf | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2500 mm |
