1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1987 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1987 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Taurus (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 505 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus, 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1987 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2700 mm |
