1975 Fiat 131 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (90 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Fiat 131 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1975 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 1975 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1986 Ford Escort (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131. 1986 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1975 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1975 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2420 mm |
