1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 22 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 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 98 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. 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, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2003 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 962 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
