1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Ford Ka
To start off, 2001 Ford Ka is newer by 27 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Ka (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2001 Ford Ka.
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, 2001 Ford Ka, 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, 2001 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2001 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
