1976 Fiat 131 vs. 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster
To start off, 1976 Fiat 131 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster (182 HP) has 129 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster weights approximately 855 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster will offer significantly more control. 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, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster (414 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster | |
| Make | Fiat | Plymouth |
| Model | 131 | Trail Duster |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 414 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2700 mm |
