1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 257 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 Focus, 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, 2004 Ford Focus (175 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 131 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
