1989 Ford Meteor vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 71 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Meteor. 1979 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Meteor has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Meteor will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Meteor | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Ford | Fiat |
| Model | Meteor | 131 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2500 mm |
