1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1951 Mercury Roadster

To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1951 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1951 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 360 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1951 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1951 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Fiat 131 1951 Mercury Roadster
Make Fiat Mercury
Model 131 Roadster
Year Released 1978 1951
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2444 cc 3990 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 75 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1190 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 5260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2960 mm


 

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