1986 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Seat 131
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (75 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Seat 131. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1978 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Seat 131 weights approximately 269 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 1978 Seat 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 1978 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1978 Seat 131 (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Seat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1978 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Ford | Seat |
| Model | Escort | 131 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
