1976 Mini MK IV vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1976 Mini MK IV.
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, 1976 Mini MK IV, 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 (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1976 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK IV | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Mini | Fiat |
| Model | MK IV | 131 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2500 mm |
