1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 MG TF
To start off, 2003 MG TF is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG TF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG TF (115 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG TF weights approximately 80 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. 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, 2003 MG TF (145 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 MG TF will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2003 MG TF | |
| Make | Fiat | MG |
| Model | 131 | TF |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2380 mm |
