1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 20 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Explorer (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Explorer weights approximately 103 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 2001 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (320 Nm) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2001 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1208 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3200 mm |
