1982 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 95 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser, 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, 1998 Ford Laser (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1365 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
