1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus X
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 28 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus X weights approximately 2 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, 2009 Ford Taurus X, 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, 2009 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2009 Ford Taurus X 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. 2009 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2009 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |
