1980 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Meteor (71 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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, 1989 Ford Meteor (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 1989 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
