1978 Mini MK IV vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 1979 Fiat 131 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV. 1979 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mini MK IV has manual transmission. 1978 Mini MK IV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mini MK IV | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Mini | Fiat |
Model | MK IV | 131 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 848 cc | 2443 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 61 Nm | 152 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1210 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 |