1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1985 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1985 Ford Meteor is newer by 7 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. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Meteor (82 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Meteor should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131.
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, 1985 Ford Meteor, 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, 1985 Ford Meteor (123 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1985 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
