1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 82 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 2009 Ford Taurus 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, 2009 Ford Taurus 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, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2009 Ford Taurus 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 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2009 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6251 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4501 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |
