2009 Ford Bantam vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Ford Bantam is newer by 35 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, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Ford Bantam. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Bantam. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Bantam weights approximately 45 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131.
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, 2009 Ford Bantam, 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, 1974 Fiat 131 (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Bantam. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Bantam. 1974 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Bantam has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Bantam 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:
| 2009 Ford Bantam | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Ford | Fiat |
| Model | Bantam | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
