1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 24 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 194 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, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1998 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 131 | Focus |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 178 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1169 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |