1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Mini MK VII
To start off, 1996 Mini MK VII is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mini MK VII (96 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VII should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VII.
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, 1996 Mini MK VII, 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, 1996 Mini MK VII (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Mini MK VII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 1996 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 131 | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 96 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2040 mm |
