1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1976 Fiat 131
To start off, 1976 Fiat 131 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (53 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Fiat 131 (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1976 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | A 40 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2500 mm |
