1969 Austin Maxi vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,748 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Austin Maxi (71 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Austin Maxi weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Austin Maxi, 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 Maxi (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1969 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin Maxi | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 131 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
