2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Jetta | 131 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4628 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1453 mm | 1370 mm |
