1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Fiesta (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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 Ford Fiesta (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 1974 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Ford | Fiat |
| Model | Fiesta | 131 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2500 mm |
