Italy vs Italy — 1969 vs 1976
| 128 Rally | 131 Abarth Rally | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 67 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 74 lb-ft | 137 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,290 cc | 1,995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 99 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,841 lbs | 2,160 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,447 mm | 2,490 mm |
| Length | 3,842 mm | 4,184 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,100,000 | 400 |
| Original MSRP | $2,600 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1969 Fiat 128 Rally counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1969 Fiat 128 Rally and 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally share a manufacturer in Fiat, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Fiat brand. The 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally holds a clear advantage in raw power with 140 hp compared to 67 hp, a 73-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 128 uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 1,290 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 12.5 seconds. The Fiat 128 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 319 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 128's 3,100,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally commands a significant premium over the 1969 Fiat 128 Rally, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.