Fiat 130

vs

Fiat 131 Abarth Rally

Italy vs Italy — 1971 vs 1976

Fiat 130 (1971)
Fiat 131 Abarth Rally (1976)
Specifications
130 Coupe131 Abarth Rally
Horsepower165 hp140 hp
Torque203 lb-ft137 lb-ft
Engine Size3,235 cc1,995 cc
0-60 mph9.8 sec7.5 sec
Top Speed122 mph120 mph
¼ Mile17.2 sec15.8 sec
Weight3,219 lbs2,160 lbs
Wheelbase2,660 mm2,490 mm
Length4,740 mm4,184 mm
Units Produced4,292400
Value (Excellent)$80,000$250,000
Collectibility8/109/10
Rarity8/108/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1971 Fiat 130 Coupe offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally counters with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Fiat stable, the 1971 Fiat 130 Coupe and 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Fiat badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1971 Fiat 130 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 165 hp compared to 140 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 130 uses a V6 DOHC displacing 3,235 cc, while the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,995 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. The Fiat 131 Abarth Rally carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1059 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 400 units built, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 130's 4,292 examples. On the collector market, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally commands a significant premium over the 1971 Fiat 130 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.