1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 26 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 396 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, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (245 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2004 Ford Taurus | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 131 | Taurus |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2444 cc | 2967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 155 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 245 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1586 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |