1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 2 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 436 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Austin | Fiat |
Model | Mini Metro | 131 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1257 cc | 2444 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 97 Nm | 144 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 22.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2500 mm |