1948 Austin A 70 vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 1974 Fiat 131 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Austin A 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 70. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Austin A 70 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1974 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1948 Austin A 70 has manual transmission. 1948 Austin A 70 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:
| 1948 Austin A 70 | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | A 70 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2500 mm |
