1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 11 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (76 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta (132 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 76 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
