1972 Austin Allegro vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Allegro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Allegro would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (53 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1972 Austin Allegro. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Allegro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1972 Austin Allegro. 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, 1972 Austin Allegro, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Allegro. (74 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Allegro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Allegro | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Allegro | 131 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 816 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
