1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Mercury Villager
To start off, 1998 Mercury Villager is newer by 19 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 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercury Villager weights approximately 590 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. 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, 1998 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1998 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercury |
| Model | 131 | Villager |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
