1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1988 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1988 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 10 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 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Plymouth Horizon (91 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Plymouth Horizon should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Plymouth Horizon weights approximately 60 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 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, 1988 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1988 Plymouth Horizon (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Plymouth Horizon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1988 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Fiat | Plymouth |
| Model | 131 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 91 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
