1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1959 Fiat 2100
To start off, 1974 Austin 1800 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 2100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 2100 would be higher. At 2,052 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Fiat 2100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 2100. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 2100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin 1800 weights approximately 256 kg more than 1959 Fiat 2100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Fiat 2100 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 1959 Fiat 2100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 1959 Fiat 2100 (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1959 Fiat 2100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1959 Fiat 2100 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | 1800 | 2100 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2052 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 934 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
