1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 34 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (90 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 397 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, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
