1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1949 MG TD
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 314 kg more than 1949 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1949 MG TD | |
| Make | Fiat | MG |
| Model | 131 | TD |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1250 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2390 mm |
