1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster weights approximately 650 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.
Because 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster 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, 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster (238 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1977 Plymouth Trail Duster | |
| Make | Fiat | Plymouth |
| Model | 131 | Trail Duster |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3678 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2700 mm |
