1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1983 Ford Orion
To start off, 1983 Ford Orion is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. Both 1978 Fiat 131 and 1983 Ford Orion are equipped with a 1,297 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ford Orion (69 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion.
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, 1983 Ford Orion, 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, 1983 Ford Orion (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Orion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1983 Ford Orion | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Orion |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 69 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
