1996 Fiat 131 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1996 Fiat 131 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat 131 (113 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat 131 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1996 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 131 | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |
