1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 27 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 4,603 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis (224 HP) has 165 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 677 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis (373 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercury |
| Model | 131 | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4603 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 224 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1857 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2920 mm |
