1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 131 | Escort |
Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 21.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 930 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |