1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercury Mariner (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 551 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 2006 Mercury Mariner 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, 2006 Mercury Mariner 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, 2006 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercury |
| Model | 131 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
