1961 Abarth 1300 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Abarth 1300 (137 HP @ 7600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 1300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1961 Abarth 1300.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1300 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Abarth | Fiat |
| Model | 1300 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2500 mm |
