1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2012 Ford Mondeo is newer by 31 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mondeo (223 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 390 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, 2012 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2012 Ford Mondeo (281 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2012 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
