2004 Ford Fiesta vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Ford Fiesta is newer by 30 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Fiesta (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 130 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 124 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1974 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2004 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:
| 2004 Ford Fiesta | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Ford | Fiat |
| Model | Fiesta | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
