1969 Austin 1300 vs. 1971 Fiat 124
To start off, 1971 Fiat 124 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Austin 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Austin 1300 would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Austin 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Austin 1300 (70 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Austin 1300 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 124 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1969 Austin 1300.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Austin 1300, 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, 1969 Austin 1300 (101 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1969 Austin 1300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin 1300 | 1971 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | 1300 | 124 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 38 L |
