1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
