1980 Fiat 131 vs. 1990 Ford Escort
To start off, 1990 Ford Escort is newer by 10 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Escort (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Escort weights approximately 59 kg more than 1980 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1990 Ford Escort, 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, 1990 Ford Escort (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 131 | 1990 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
