1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 21 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 181 kg more than 1977 Fiat 131. 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, 1998 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, 1998 Ford Focus (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
