1979 Austin Marina vs. 1976 Fiat 131
To start off, 1979 Austin Marina is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1979 Austin Marina. 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Austin Marina | 1976 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Marina | 131 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1020 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 |
