1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 25 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 162 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, 2004 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (202 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
