1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mini Cooper (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mini Cooper weights approximately 250 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mini Cooper, 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, 2006 Mini Cooper (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 131 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
