1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2008 Mercury Sable 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercury Sable (260 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercury Sable weights approximately 1046 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 Mercury Sable, 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 Mercury Sable (333 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2008 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mercury Sable | |
Make | Fiat | Mercury |
Model | 131 | Sable |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 260 HP |
Torque | 94 Nm | 333 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 2011 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |