Italy vs Italy — 1969 vs 1976
| 128 Rally | Abarth 131 Rally | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 67 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 74 lb-ft | 130 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,290 cc | 1,995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 99 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,841 lbs | 2,380 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,447 mm | 2,530 mm |
| Length | 3,842 mm | 4,409 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,100,000 | 400 |
| Original MSRP | $2,600 | $9,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1976 Fiat Abarth 131 Rally emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1969 Fiat 128 Rally counters with lighter weight, 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 Abarth 131 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 Abarth 131 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 Abarth 131 Rally relies on a Inline-4 with 1,995 cc. The 1976 Fiat Abarth 131 Rally claims a higher top speed at 115 mph compared to 99 mph. The Fiat 128 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 539 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 400 units built, the 1976 Fiat Abarth 131 Rally is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 128's 3,100,000 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1976 Fiat Abarth 131 Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.