1978 Austin Marina vs. 1977 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Austin Marina is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Austin Marina (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Austin Marina should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 83 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Austin Marina (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Austin Marina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 1977 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Marina | 131 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2500 mm |
