1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1968 Ford Escort
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Ford Escort (54 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Ford Escort, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (82 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1968 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
