1961 Austin 7 vs. 1978 Seat 131
To start off, 1978 Seat 131 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin 7 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Seat 131 (53 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1961 Austin 7. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Seat 131 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Seat 131 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1961 Austin 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Seat 131 (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin 7. (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Seat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin 7 | 1978 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Seat |
| Model | 7 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2500 mm |
