1990 Austin Maestro vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 1990 Austin Maestro is newer by 11 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Austin Maestro (66 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1990 Austin Maestro.
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, 1990 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, 1990 Austin Maestro (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1990 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Austin Maestro | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maestro | 131 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1273 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 965 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 |
