1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 15 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (131 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 47 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. 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, 1996 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, 1996 Ford Escort (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 1996 Ford Escort | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 131 | Escort |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1152 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |