1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Mini MK VII
To start off, 1996 Mini MK VII is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VII. (96 HP @ 6130 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VII. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VII, 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VII. (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VII.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1996 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 131 | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2040 mm |
