1985 Austin Maestro vs. 1977 Fiat 131
To start off, 1985 Austin Maestro is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Austin Maestro (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1985 Austin Maestro.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Austin Maestro, 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, 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:
| 1985 Austin Maestro | 1977 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maestro | 131 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
