1958 Ford 12 M vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1958 Ford 12 M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1958 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1958 Ford 12 M 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:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Ford | Fiat |
| Model | 12 M | 131 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
