1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 29 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, 2008 Ford Focus (90 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 152 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, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 131 | Focus |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1850 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1362 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |