1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2002 Mercury Sable is newer by 21 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercury Sable (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercury Sable weights approximately 485 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, 2002 Mercury Sable, 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, 2002 Mercury Sable (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2002 Mercury Sable 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. 2002 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 2002 Mercury Sable | |
Make | Fiat | Mercury |
Model | 131 | Sable |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |