1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1977 Fiat 131 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 64 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. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1977 Fiat 131 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Fiat | Riley |
| Model | 131 | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2380 mm |
