1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1981 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1981 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1981 Plymouth Horizon (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Plymouth Horizon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1981 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Fiat | Plymouth |
| Model | 131 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
