1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1962 Mini MK I
To start off, 1979 Fiat 131 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mini MK I 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 1962 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1962 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1962 Mini MK I. 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, 1962 Mini MK I, 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 1962 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1962 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 131 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2040 mm |
