View source for Engineering:Fiat 131

{{short description|Family sedan}}
{{Infobox automobile
| image = Fiat 131 S Mirafiori 1600.jpg
| caption = Fiat 131 (Series 1)
| name = Fiat 131
| aka = {{unbulleted list|Fiat Mirafiori|Fiat Supermirafiori|Fiat Brava|Fiat SuperBrava|Polski Fiat 131p|Seat 131|Tofaş Murat 131}}
| manufacturer = Fiat
| production = 1973–1984
| assembly = {{unbulleted list|Italy: Comprensorio di Mirafiori, [[Place:Turin|Turin]]|Colombia: [[Place:Bogotá|Bogotá]]<ref name="elcarrocolombiano.com">Los años tenebrosos del sector automotor: 1982, El "Boom" de los Importados: [https://www.elcarrocolombiano.com/los-anos-tenebrosos-del-sector-automotor/1982-el-boom-de-los-importados/ Los años tenebrosos del sector automotor: 1982, El "Boom" de los Importados], accessdate: 12. July 2019</ref>|Indonesia: [[Place:Jakarta|Jakarta]]<ref name=TAM85>{{cite book |title=Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 1985 |editor=Mastrostefano, Raffaele |publisher=Editoriale Domus S.p.A |ref=TAM85 |year=1985 |page=333 |language=it |location=Milano |isbn=88-7212-012-8}}</ref>|Morocco: [[Place:Casablanca|Casablanca]] (SOMACA)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://somaca.e-monsite.com/ |title=Somaca Casablanca |publisher=Somaca.e-monsite.com |access-date=19 April 2010 |archive-date=20 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150520020851/http://somaca.e-monsite.com/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>|Poland: Warsaw (FSO)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fso-sa.com.pl/pl-PL/ |title=FSO Warsaw |publisher=fso-sa.com.pl |date=22 November 2011 |access-date=22 November 2011 |archive-date=9 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150209195856/http://www.fso-sa.com.pl/pl-PL/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>|Spain: [[Place:Barcelona|Barcelona]] (SEAT)|Turkey: [[Place:Bursa|Bursa]] (Tofaş)|Venezuela: La Victoria, Aragua}}
| designer = 
| class = [[Engineering:Family car|Family car]]
| platform = 
| layout = [[Engineering:Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout|Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive]]
| body_style = {{unbulleted list|4-door saloon|2-door saloon|5-door [[Engineering:Station wagon|estate]]|3-door [[Engineering:Panel van|panel van]]}}
| related = {{unbulleted list|[[Engineering:SEAT 131|SEAT 131]]|[[Engineering:Tofaş Şahin|Tofaş Şahin]]|Tofaş Murat 131|Tofaş Doğan|Tofaş Kartal (estate)}}
| engine = {{unbulleted list
  | '''petrol:'''
  | 1.3&nbsp;L I4
  | 1.4&nbsp;L I4
  | 1.6&nbsp;L I4
  | 1.8&nbsp;L I4
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''Fiat Twin Cam'' I4
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''Fiat Twin Cam'' [[Engineering:Supercharger|SC]] I4
  | '''diesel:'''
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[Engineering:Sofim 8140 engine#2.0|Sofim 8144.65]]'' I4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[Engineering:Sofim 8140 engine#2445|Sofim 8140.61]]'' I4
  }}
| transmission = {{unbulleted list|4-speed [[Engineering:Manual transmission|manual]]|5-speed [[Engineering:Manual transmission|manual]]|3-speed [[Engineering:Automatic transmission|automatic]]<ref name="carsfromitaly.net">{{cite web |url=http://www.carsfromitaly.net/fiat/index.html |title=Fiat 131 |website=carsfromitaly.net |access-date=3 October 2007}}</ref>}}
| wheelbase = {{convert|2490|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name="AutoKatalog1983">{{cite book |title=Auto Katalog 1983 |publisher=Vereinigte Motor-Verlage GmbH & Co. KG |location=Stuttgart |pages=220–221 |year=1982}}</ref>
| length = {{convert|4230|to|4264|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name="AutoKatalog1983" />
| width = {{convert|1644|to|1651|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1381|to|1411|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|950|to|1145|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}
| predecessor = [[Engineering:Fiat 124|Fiat 124]]
| successor = [[Engineering:Fiat Regata|Fiat Regata]]
| sp = uk
}}

The '''Fiat 131''' is a [[Engineering:Family car|family sedan]] manufactured and marketed by Fiat from 1974 to 1984 after its debut at the 1974 Turin Motor Show.  Available as a two-door and four-door saloon and 5-door [[Engineering:Station wagon|estate]] across a single generation, the 131 succeeded the [[Engineering:Fiat 124|Fiat 124]].

The 131 was also marketed as the Fiat Mirafiori, after the [[Place:Turin|Turin]] district where the cars were manufactured. Initially, the 131 was offered with 1.3&nbsp;L and 1.6&nbsp;L [[Engineering:Overhead valve engine|overhead valve engine]]s and the range received revisions in 1978 and 1981.  Production reached 1,513,800.<ref name="carsfromitaly.net"/>

==Specifications==
The Fiat 131 used steel [[Engineering:Monocoque|monocoque]] bodywork for its three-box design and used a [[Engineering:Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout|front engine]], [[Engineering:Rear-wheel drive|rear-wheel drive]] layout, where the [[Earth:Internal combustion engine|engine]] is [[Engineering:Longitudinal engine|longitudinally]] front-mounted. The [[Engineering:Transmission (mechanics)|gearbox]] is directly behind the engine, and a tubular propeller shaft, under the transmission "tunnel", transmits the drive to a solid live rear axle.

The engines were all inline-four types, derived from those used in the outgoing 124 range, with a [[Chemistry:Cast iron|cast iron]] [[Engineering:Cylinder block|cylinder block]] and [[Chemistry:Aluminium alloy|aluminium alloy]] [[Engineering:Cylinder head|cylinder head]]. Initially the 131 was offered only with pushrod valve gear, which offered the innovation of being the worldwide first engine with OHV valve gear and a belt driven camshaft. Only later in the model's life came the well known double [[Engineering:Overhead camshaft|overhead camshaft]] (DOHC) engines which used a toothed [[Engineering:Timing belt (camshaft)|timing belt]]. Fuel supply was via a single [[Company:Weber carburetor|Weber]] ADF twin-[[Physics:Venturi effect|choke]] [[Engineering:Carburetor|carburettor]], fed from a trunk mounted steel [[Engineering:Fuel tank|fuel tank]]. Traditional contact breaker [[Engineering:Ignition system|ignition system]]s were used, usually with Marelli [[Engineering:Distributor|distributor]]s.

The [[Engineering:Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]] system utilised fully independent front suspension, with [[Engineering:MacPherson strut|MacPherson strut]]s, [[Engineering:Control arm|track control arms]] and [[Engineering:Anti-roll bar|anti-roll bar]]. The rear suspension was quite advanced (when using a solid live rear axle), in that the rear axle was controlled by double unequal length trailing arms and a [[Engineering:Panhard rod|panhard rod]], with [[Physics:Coil spring|coil spring]]s and direct acting [[Engineering:Shock absorber|damper]]s. This design proved far superior to many of its contemporaries, especially with respect to vehicle stability and handling.

The [[Engineering:Brake|braking system]] was also typical; the front brakes were [[Engineering:Disc brake|disc brake]]s, using a solid iron disc and a single-piston sliding caliper. The rears were [[Engineering:Drum brake|drum brake]]s (a technological backwards step from the 124, which used discs all round), utilising leading and trailing shoe design operated by a dual piston fixed slave cylinder. They were operated hydraulically, with a tandem [[Engineering:Master cylinder|master cylinder]] assisted by a vacuum [[Servomechanism|servo]] using two separate circuits. A rear-mounted load sensing valve varied the bias of effort applied to the rear brakes, dependent on the load being carried (and also the pitch dynamics caused by braking effort and road levels). A centrally located floor mounted handbrake operated on the rear axle using [[Engineering:Bowden cable|bowden cable]]s.

The car's interior had its secondary dashboard switches illuminated by a central bulb with fibre optic distribution to the switches.

=={{anchor|Series 1|1974}} Series 1 (1974–1978)==
The Fiat 131 Mirafiori was introduced at the 55th Turin Motor Show in late October 1974.<ref name="lastampa models 1974">{{cite news |url=http://www.archiviolastampa.it/component/option,com_lastampa/task,search/mod,libera/action,viewer/Itemid,3/page,13/articleid,1114_01_1974_0244_0013_21495201/ |last=Villare|first=Renzo |title=Queste le undici versioni della Fiat "131 mirafiori" |trans-title=These are the eleven Fiat "131 mirafiori" variants |journal=La Stampa |date=30 October 1974 |page=13 |language=it |access-date=15 November 2015}}</ref>
The 131 came with a choice of a {{cvt|1297|cc|L|1|abbr=on}} or {{cvt|1585|cc|L|1|abbr=on}} [[Engineering:Overhead valve engine|OHV]] inline-four engines, both from the engine family first introduced on the [[Engineering:Fiat 124|Fiat 124]]. Both engines were fitted with a single twin-choke [[Company:Weber carburetor|Weber]] 32 ADF downdraught carburettor. A 4-speed [[Engineering:Manual transmission|manual transmission]] was standard, with a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed [[Engineering:Torque converter|torque converter]] [[Engineering:Automatic transmission|automatic]] optional on the 1600 engine only.

The initial range comprised eleven different models.<ref name="lastampa models 1974" /> There were three body styles, all available from the start: 2-door saloon, 4-door saloon and ''Familiare'' [[Engineering:Station wagon|station wagon]] (''Estate'' on the British market).<ref name=QR78>{{Cite book| title = Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 77/78 | publisher = Editoriale Domus S.p.A | year = 1977 | pages = 191–194 | location = Milano }}</ref> Trim levels were two; the entry-level 131 Mirafiori (also known as "Normale" or "Standard") had single square [[Engineering:Headlamp|headlamp]]s, wheels and dished [[Engineering:Hubcap|hubcap]] from the 124, and simplified interior furnishings. Next was the better appointed 131 Mirafiori Special (or simply "S"), which could be distinguished from the base model by its quadruple circular headlamps, specific [[Engineering:Grille (car)|grille]], side rubbing strips, chrome window surrounds, and rubber [[Engineering:Bumper (car)|bumper]] inserts.<ref name="lastampa models 1974" /> Inside it added different instrumentation with triple square dials, a padded adjustable [[Engineering:Steering wheel|steering wheel]], cloth upholstery, and reclining seats.<ref name="lastampa models 1974" /> Additionally the more sophisticated options — such as [[Physics:Air conditioning|air conditioning]], [[Engineering:Tachometer|tachometer]], limited slip differential and [[Engineering:Vinyl roof|vinyl roof]] — were exclusive to the Special. Each body style could be combined with either of the engines and trim levels, save for the Special estate which only came with the larger engine.

Initial sales were disappointing, since the car was launched at the height of the [[Finance:1973 oil crisis|oil crisis]] and at a time of strikes and hyperinflation at home. Adding to manufacturers' woes, the cost of parts and materials all increased, while sales went down. Gradually, however, sales built up and the car also sold well in export markets. In 1975, the 131 went on sale in the United States as well. US market versions had a SOHC 1.8 litre inline-four, carried over from the earlier 124 but now with more emissions control equipment, and were available with a GM three-speed automatic transmission.<ref name="SC">{{cite book |title=Standard Catalog of Imported Cars, 1946–1990 |first=James M. |last=Flammang |publisher=Krause Publications, Inc. |location=Iola, WI |page=239 |year=1994 |isbn=0-87341-158-7}}</ref>

Salvatore Diomante's Autocostruzioni S.D., located near [[Place:Turin|Turin]], offered a nearly 5-metre long "131 Diplomatic" limousine conversion.<ref>{{cite journal | ref = S81 | editor1-last = Costa | editor1-first = André | editor-first2 = Georges-Michel | editor-last2 = Fraichard |year=1981 |title=Salon 1981: Toutes les Voitures du Monde |issue=14–15 |pages=200 |journal=L'Auto Journal |location=Paris |language=fr}}</ref>

:{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:90%;"
! Model || Engine code || Engine type ||style="line-height:1.2em;"| [[Engineering:Engine displacement|Displacement]]<br />[[Engineering:Bore (engine)|bore]] × [[Engineering:Stroke (engine)|stroke]] || [[Engineering:Carburetor|Carburetor]] || [[Physics:Power|Power]]
|-
|style="line-height:1.2em;"| '''Mirafiori 1300N'''
|rowspan=2| 131A6.000<ref>{{citation | url = https://italo-youngtimer.de/wcf/index.php?attachment/27532-131-1300-1-pdf | title = Technische Tabellen: Fiat 131/1300 | via = italo-youngtimer.de | date = January 1975 | publisher = Fiat Kundendienst | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240130134649/https://italo-youngtimer.de/wcf/index.php?attachment/27532-131-1300-1-pdf/ | archive-date = 2024-01-30 | url-status = live | language = de }}</ref> || rowspan="9" | [[Engineering:Overhead valve engine|OHV]] I4 ||rowspan=5| {{cvt|1297|cc|L|1|abbr=on}}<br />{{nowrap|75.0 × 71.5 mm}} || rowspan="2" | single twin-choke<br />[[Engineering:Solex (manufacturer)|Solex]] C32 TD1||rowspan=2| {{convert|55|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on|adj=mid|[[Horsepower#DIN|DIN]]}} {{nowrap|at 5000 rpm}} <br />(Germany-only version for low octane fuel use)
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Familiare 1300N'''
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Mirafiori 1300'''
|rowspan=3| 131A.000<ref name="lum S1">{{cite book |title=Fiat 131 Mirafiori—Uso e manutenzione |publisher=Fiat |type=owner's manual |date=November 1974 |language=it}}</ref> ||rowspan="7" | single twin-choke<br />[[Company:Weber carburetor|Weber]] 32 ADF || rowspan=3| {{convert|65|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on|adj=mid|DIN}} {{nowrap|at 5400 rpm}}
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Mirafiori Special 1300'''
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Familiare 1300'''
|-
|style="line-height:1.2em;"| '''Mirafiori 1600'''
|rowspan=4| 131A1.000<ref name="lum S1" /> || rowspan="4" | {{cvt|1585|cc|L|1|abbr=on}}<br />{{nowrap|84.0 × 71.5 mm}}|| rowspan="4" |{{convert|75|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on|adj=mid|DIN}} {{nowrap|at 5400 rpm}}
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Mirafiori Special 1600'''
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Familiare 1600'''
|- style="line-height:1.2em;"
| '''Familiare Special 1600'''
|-
| '''Abarth Rally'''<ref name="Autosprint Fiat Abarth">{{cite journal |title=Fiat Abarth 131 Rally—La guida pesante |trans-title=Heavyweight driving |journal=Autosprint |date=12 March 1976 |volume=XVI |issue=12 |pages=52–54 |language=it}}</ref> ||131AR.000
| DOHC 16-valve I4 || {{cvt|1995|cc|L|1|abbr=on}}<br />{{nowrap|84.0 × 90.0 mm}} || single twin-choke<br />Weber 34 ADF || {{convert|140|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on|adj=mid|DIN}} {{nowrap|at 6400 rpm}}
|-
|'''US version'''
|131A1.040
|SOHC I4
|{{cvt|1756|cc|L|1|abbr=on}}
|single twin-choke<br />Weber
|{{cvt|86|hp|kW PS|0|adj=mid|SAE net}}<ref name="SC" /><br />{{wipe|California}}: {{cvt|83|hp|kW PS|0|adj=mid|SAE net}} {{nowrap|at 5800 rpm}}<ref>{{cite magazine | magazine = Road & Track | title = Fiat 131: Larger and more practical, but still sporty | page = 47 | url = https://i0.wp.com/www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Fiat-131-2.jpg | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231028011351/https://i0.wp.com/www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Fiat-131-2.jpg | archive-date = 2023-10-28 | via = Curbside Classic | date = October 1975 | volume = 27 | number = 3 }}</ref>
|}

<gallery widths="200px" heights="135px">
File:Fiat 131 early one in England.jpg|Fiat 131 Mirafiori Special
File:Fiat 131S 1600 Mirafiori Jasło (1).JPG|The T-shaped tail lamps are characteristic of first series cars.
File:Dashboard Fiat 131 1st series.jpg|Series 1 dashboard, here a Mirafiori Special's
File:Seat 131 Estate Tenerife 1979 .jpg|SEAT 131 Estate
File:1976 Fiat 131 four-door sedan (US), front right.jpg|US-spec 1976 Fiat 131 four-door, showing the larger bumpers used to meet strict federal safety standards.
</gallery>
{{clear right}}

===Fiat 131 Abarth Rally===
In 1976, 400 examples of the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally were built for homologation purposes.<ref>{{cite book |last=Robson|first=Graham |title=Fiat 131 Abarth |date=2008 |publisher=Veloce Publishing Ltd|isbn=978-1-84584-182-9|page=21 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7IGLZlNj5j0C&pg=PA21}}</ref> These cars were built in a cooperation between Fiat, Bertone and Abarth. Bertone took part-completed two door standard bodyshells from the production line in Mirafiori, fitted plastic mudguards front and rear, a plastic bonnet and bootlid and modified the metal structure to accept the rear [[Engineering:Independent suspension|independent suspension]]. The cars were fully painted and trimmed and then delivered back to the Fiat special Rivalta plant where they received the Abarth mechanicals.

The street version of the car used a [[Engineering:Overhead camshaft#Double overhead camshaft|DOHC]] [[Engineering:Multi-valve#Four-valve cylinder head|4 valves]] per [[Physics:Cylinder (engine)|cylinder]] derivative of the standard twin cam inline-four engine, equipped with a double downdraught 34 ADF [[Company:Weber carburetor|Weber carburetor]]s producing {{convert|140|PS|bhp kW|0|abbr=on}} at 6400 rpm and {{cvt|17.5|kgm|Nm lbft kgm|0|order=out}} of [[Physics:Torque#Machine torque|torque]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1978/27755/fiat_abarth_131_rally.html|website=automobile-catalog|title=1978 Fiat Abarth 131 Rally|access-date=8 July 2018}}</ref> at 3600 rpm. The street cars used the standard gearbox with no synchromesh (Rally type regulations required the use of the same type of synchromesh on the competition cars as on the street versions) and the front brake discs of the smaller [[Engineering:Fiat 127|Fiat 127]]. Competition cars used [[Engineering:Dry sump|dry sump]] lubrication and eventually [[Engineering:Kugelfischer|Kugelfischer]] [[Engineering:Manifold injection#Mechanical controlling|mechanical fuel injection]]. In race specifications, the engine produced up to {{convert|240|PS|bhp kW|0|abbr=on}} in 1980, being driven to World Championship status by Walter Röhrl.

<gallery widths="200" heights="135">
File:Fiat 131 Abarth - Cesana-Sestriere 2014 (14460118269).jpg|Fiat Abarth 131 Rally
File:1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Stradale in Rosso Aranci, rear left 2.jpg|Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Stradale; rear view
File:1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Stradale in Rosso Aranci, interior2.jpg|Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Stradale interior
File:Bergamo Fiat 131 1.jpg|Fiat Abarth 131 left side view
File:Walter Röhrls Fiat 131 Abarth (Sponsor Alitalia) aus 1978-1979.jpg|Walter Röhrl's Fiat 131 Abarth (Sponsor Alitalia)
</gallery>

=={{anchor|Series 2|1978}} Series 2 (1978–1981)==

The 131 got a minor facelift in 1978. New [[Engineering:Overhead camshaft#Double overhead camshaft|DOHC]], or "Twin Cam" (TC) engines arrived, and these models were badged as ''Supermirafiori''. The biggest changes exterior-wise for the Series 2 were larger rectangular shaped front lights (quad round headlights in the US), new bumpers (for the Supermirafiori), new bigger rear lights, while a new interior (CL, Supermirafiori) included the dashboard and a chunky, single-spoke steering wheel.

Also in 1978, the 2-door sporting version ''Racing'' (Mirafiori Sport in the UK) with {{convert|115|PS|kW|0|abbr=on}} twin cam engine, was launched. This car had four round headlights (the inner headlights being smaller than the outer ones, unlike any other Mirafiori model produced), different grille, spoilers and extended wheel arches, and a short-throw 5 speed gearbox. The Racing had top speed of {{convert|180|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. An important introduction for the Italian and many other continental European markets was the new diesel engined versions, built in [[Engineering:Sofim|Sofim]]'s brand-new factory in Foggia.<ref name=3Anni>{{Cite book| title = Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 77/78 | chapter = Fiat 131 Mirafiori: da 3 anni è un successo | trans-chapter = Fiat 131 Mirafiori: a three-year success | publisher = Editoriale Domus S.p.A | year = 1977 | page = 205 | location = Milano | language = it }}</ref> The diesel had been previewed and tested in competition already, with three diesel-engined cars prepared by Abarth for the 1977 London–Sydney Marathon rally.<ref name=3Anni/> As introduced on the Series 2, 131 Diesels received four, equally sized round headlights and a noticeable (and characteristic) bump in the hood to accommodate the taller engine. The ''Familiare'' (estate) was renamed ''Panorama''.

In Venezuela, the 131 Series 2 was kept in production after the Series 3 had been introduced in Europe. They were only available with the four-door sedan bodywork, as the Mirafiori L and the Mirafiori CL, and were fitted with the Panorama's OHV 1.6-liter engine with {{cvt|75|PS|kW hp|0}}. An additional version was the sporting "131 Corsa 95", which used the 131 Racing's front spoiler, grille, rear spoiler, and other parts (still with four doors) along with the twin cam Supermirafiori engine and a sizable bonnet scoop. In Venezuela, this engine produced a claimed {{cvt|95|PS|kW hp|0}} at 6000&nbsp;rpm.<ref name="TAM82/83.1">{{Cite book | title = Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 82/83: AC-Nissan | publisher = Editoriale Domus S.p.A | date = 1982-10-31 | ref = TAM83a | language = Italian | volume = 1° | page = 249 | location = Milano }}</ref>

===Brava (USA)===
The Series 2 was marketed in the United States as the Fiat '''Brava''' (two-door only) and '''Super Brava''' from mid-year 1978 with the same 1.8 litre four as had been used in the US-market 131, but before the year was over this was replaced by the somewhat more powerful and much torquier 2&nbsp;litre twin-cam four also seen in the [[Engineering:Fiat 124 Sport Spider|Spider]].<ref name="SC1">Flammang, ''Standard Catalog of Imported Cars'', p. 240</ref> Initially, the better equipped models were sold as Super Bravas, but the base model and "Super" tag were dropped for 1979. The interim Brava version also retained the 131's interior.<ref name=RTbg79>{{citation | ref = RT79 | title = Fiat Super Brava: Bravado or Bravura? | work = Road & Track's Road Test Annual & Buyer's Guide 1979 | date = January–February 1979 | publisher = CBS Publications | location = Greenwich, CT | page = 139 }}</ref> Importantly, the air conditioning system was also upgraded to cope with the demands of US drivers. For 1980 a more powerful fuel-injected version was added ({{convert|102|hp|kW|abbr=on|disp=or}}) while the Estate version was dropped. For 1981 the EFI engine became standard equipment and the headlamps were changed for single rectangular units, but this was to be the last year for the Brava/131 in the US.<ref name="SC2">{{cite book |last=Flammang |first=James M. | date=January 1992 | title = Standard Catalog of Imported Cars |edition=1st |location=Minneapolis, USA |publisher=Motorbooks Intl |pages=241–242 |isbn=978-0873411585}}</ref> The January 1991, edition of Popular Mechanics in the United States listed the 1979 Fiat 131 in the "Overall Worst" category as the most "trouble prone" car ever recorded in their Owner Report histories.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Lamb|first=Michael|date=January 1991|title=Ask the Man Who Owns One "All Time Worst"|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=feMDAAAAMBAJ&q=%22popular+mechanics%22+%22fiat+131%22&pg=PA45|journal=Popular Mechanics}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" align="right" style="text-align:center; font-size:91%;"
||| '''Displacement''' || '''Engine type'''|| '''Power'''
|-
|'''Mirafiori'''||1297/1301&nbsp;cc||I4 ohv ||{{cvt|65|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Supermirafiori'''||1297/1301&nbsp;cc||I4 dohc ||{{cvt|78|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Supermirafiori'''||1585&nbsp;cc||I4 dohc ||{{cvt|96|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Panorama'''||1297/1301&nbsp;cc||I4 ohv ||{{cvt|65|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Panorama'''||1585&nbsp;cc||I4 ohv ||{{cvt|75|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Diesel'''|| 1995&nbsp;cc ||I4 ||{{cvt|60|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Diesel'''|| 2445&nbsp;cc ||I4 ||{{cvt|72|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Racing'''|| 1995&nbsp;cc ||I4 dohc|| {{cvt|115|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-style="background:#DDE8F6;"
|'''Brava'''||1756&nbsp;cc||I4 dohc || {{cvt|83|hp|kW PS|0}}<ref name=RT79b>''R&T Buyer's Guide 1979'', pp. 140–141</ref>
|-style="background:#DDE8F6;"
|'''Brava'''||1995&nbsp;cc||I4 dohc || {{cvt|86|hp|kW PS|0}}<br />{{wipe|California}}: {{cvt|80|hp|kW PS|0}}<ref name="AR80">{{citation | ref = AR80 | title = Automobil Revue '80 | editor1-last = Braunschweig | editor1-first = Robert | editor2-last = Büschi | editor2-first = Hans-Ulrich | publisher = Hallwag, AG | page = 287 | language = de, fr | location = Berne, Switzerland | volume = 75 | date = 6 March 1980 }}</ref>
|-style="background:#DDE8F6;"
|'''Brava EFI'''||1995&nbsp;cc||I4 dohc || {{cvt|103|PS|kW hp|0}}<ref name="SC2"/>
|}

<gallery widths="200px" heights="135px">
File:Fiat 131 Supermirafiori 98PS 1979 1.jpg|Fiat 131 Supermirafiori
File:Dashboard Fiat 131 2nd series.jpg|Series 2 dashboard
File:Fiat 131 2000TC 01.jpg|Fiat 131 Racing
File:Fiat 131 Marengo Mk1 P. Castelli.jpg|[[Engineering:Fiat Marengo|Fiat 131 Marengo]], van version of the 131 Panorama estate
</gallery>
{{clear right}}

===131 Hybrid===
In 1979, Fiat presented the 131 Ibrida,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-01-15 |title=Fiat 131 ibrida: un'occasione mancata | trans-title = Fiat 131 Ibrida: A missed occasion | first = Giancarlo Gnepo |last = Kla | url = https://ruoteclassiche.quattroruote.it/fiat-131-ibrida-unoccasione-mancata/ |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=Ruoteclassiche |language=it-IT}}</ref> an experimental prototype featuring the small 903&nbsp;cc engine from the [[Engineering:Fiat 127|Fiat 127]], de-tuned to {{cvt|33|hp-metric|kW|0}}, and mated to a 24&nbsp;kW DC electric motor. Power is also provided by regeneration via the braking system. The 250&nbsp;amp batteries are located in the boot, adding {{convert|386|lb|kg|abbr=on|order=flip}} to the weight.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=We drive Fiat's experimental hybrid electric car | first = Jan P. | last = Norbye | magazine = Popular Science |date=November 1980 |pages=84–86|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BPsMp8KMONAC&q=Fiat+131+hybrid&pg=PA86 | volume = 217 | number = 5 }}</ref>

=={{anchor|Series 3|1981}} Series 3 (1981–1984)==

The 131 was updated again in March 1981.<ref>''Salon 1981'', p. 170</ref> By this time, the car was no longer offered in the USA. Production of the Racing/Sport versions ceased, although these were sold well into 1982. The same 2.0 TC (twin cam) engine went to the Supermirafiori. The car was renamed 131 Super Brava in Australia. The car received a slightly updated interior (instruments, single-piece glovebox lid), whilst lower rubbing strips found their way onto all models up to CL specification. The Supermirafiori received larger lower door cladding. Mechanically, Mirafiori versions now received overhead cam engines rather than pushrod versions; a new 1.4 litre engine and a revised 1.6 litre. Also new were the clutch and gearboxes, a tweaked suspension was also introduced and the gas tank increased in size by three litres, for a total {{Convert|53|L|usgal impgal|1|abbr=on}} capacity.

In June 1981, a new sport version, the Volumetrico Abarth, was introduced to some markets, with a supercharged version of the familiar 2-litre [[Engineering:Overhead camshaft#Double overhead camshaft|twin-cam]]. This car, also known as the 2000 TC Compressore, was built in a small series (about 200 units<ref>{{cite web|title=The Fiat 131 Supermirafiori Volumetrico Abarth|url=http://www.131mirafiori.com/131storyVx.htm|work=131mirafiori.com|access-date=29 November 2012}}</ref>) and could reach {{convert|190|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name="AR83">{{cite book | title = Automobil Revue '83 | editor-last = Büschi | editor-first = Hans-Ulrich | publisher = Hallwag, AG | pages = 289–290 | location = Berne, Switzerland | volume = 78 | date = 10 March 1983 | isbn = 3-444-06065-3 }}</ref>

In 1983, the production of the saloon version was discontinued, but the estate, now named 131 Maratea, remained in production with two engine choices (115 PS 2.0 TC and 72 PS 2.5 D) until 1984, when they were replaced with the [[Engineering:Fiat Ritmo|Ritmo]]-based [[Engineering:Fiat Regata|Regata]] Weekend. These last versions featured four round headlights and the by-now familiar five-bar grille.

In Australia the saloon was also updated for a final time for the 1984 model year. It also received the 4 round headlight and five bar grille. Other subtle revisions were also made to the vehicles wiring with the central locking button removed and integrated into central locking motors. Wheels were upgraded to a 14-inch size with unique offset . Driveshaft universal joint size was increased . Steering rack ends and tie rod ends were sizing was also changed. Brake master cylinder bore size was increased to 20mm and brake fittings changed to a metric fine thread size.
{| class="wikitable"  align="right" style="text-align:center; font-size:91%;"
| '''Model''' || '''Displacement''' || '''Engine type'''|| '''Power'''
|-----
|'''Mirafiori'''||1,367&nbsp;cc|| SOHC I4 ||{{convert|70|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}
|-----
|'''Mirafiori CL'''||1,585&nbsp;cc|| SOHC I4 ||{{convert|85|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}
|-----
|'''Supermirafiori'''||1,367&nbsp;cc|| DOHC I4 ||{{cvt|75|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-----
|'''Supermirafiori'''||1,585&nbsp;cc|| DOHC I4 ||{{convert|98|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}
|-----
|'''Supermirafiori'''||1,995&nbsp;cc|| DOHC I4 ||{{convert|115|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}
|-----
|'''Volumetrico Abarth'''|| 1,995&nbsp;cc || DOHC I4 ||{{convert|140|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}
|-----
|'''Panorama'''||1,301&nbsp;cc|| [[Engineering:Overhead valve engine|OHV]] I4 ||{{convert|65|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}
|-----
|'''Panorama'''||1,585&nbsp;cc|| SOHC I4 ||{{cvt|85|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-----
|'''Mirafiori 2000 Diesel'''|| 1,995&nbsp;cc || I4 ||{{cvt|60|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-----
|'''Mirafiori 2500 Diesel'''||rowspan=2| 2,445&nbsp;cc ||rowspan=2| I4 ||rowspan=2| {{cvt|72|PS|kW hp|0}}
|-
|'''Supermirafiori 2500 Diesel'''
|}

<gallery widths="200px" heights="135px">
File:Fiat 131 with plastic dodgem panels in profile.jpg|Profile of a 131 Supermirafiori Diesel 2500
File:Fiat 131 Supermirafiori.jpg|Fiat 131 Supermirafiori, rear view
File:Fiat 131-Volumetrico-Abarth.JPG|Fiat 131 Volumetrico Abarth
</gallery>
{{clear right}}

==Motorsport==

===The 131 as a rally car===
Fiat 131 Rally's precursor the 3.5-litre Group 5 Abarth SE 031 won 1975 Giro d'Italia automobilistico. The Fiat 131 Abarth was a very successful group 4 rally car, winning the manufacturers' World Rally Championship three times: in 1977, 1978, and in 1980.
With this car Markku Alen won the 1978 FIA Cup for Drivers and Walter Röhrl won the 1980 drivers' World Rally Championship.<ref name="rallybase.nl">{{Cite web|url=http://www.rallybase.nl/index.php?type=profile&driverid=3171|title=Walter Röhrl| access-date = 2007-07-03|work=rallybase.nl}}</ref>
Between 1976 and 1981 the Fiat 131 won 20 WRC events; other notable drivers were Sandro Munari, Timo Salonen, Attilio Bettega and Michèle Mouton.

Between 1975 and 1977 the official "works" cars carried the ''Olio Fiat'' blue and yellow [[Engineering:Livery|livery]], then during 1978 and 1979 seasons they were sponsored by Italian airline Alitalia and bore their distinctive red, white and green livery.

Prior to the introduction of the 131 Diesel, Fiat had Abarth prepare three diesel-engined cars with two-door, Series 1 bodyshells for the 1977 London–Sydney Marathon rally to promote its reliability and robustness.<ref name=3Anni/> Entered by the French Esso Aseptogyl team, two cars finished, in 15th and 23rd place. The engines were largely unmodified, while the cars were fitted with 5-speed gearboxes and {{convert|90|L|impgal|0|adj=on}} fuel tanks.<ref name=3Anni/>

<gallery widths="200px" heights="135px">
File:1975 Fiat Abarth 031 Prototype.jpg|1975 "031", Fiat Abarth 131's pre-series racing prototype.
File:Fiat Abarth 031 - Giorgio Pianta (1975 Automotive Tour of Italy, Imola round).jpg|Giorgio Pianta's Fiat Abarth 031, in action at the Imola stage of 1975 Giro d'Italia.
File:Fiat 131 Abarth 001.JPG|Fiat Abarth 131 rally car with "Olio Fiat" livery
File:Fiat 131 goodwood.jpg|Fiat Abarth 131 rally car with "Alitalia" livery
File:Fiat 131 Abarth 010.jpg|Fiat Abarth 131 rally car with "Wreath Fiat" livery
</gallery>{{clear right}}

===World Rally Championship event victories===
Fiat Abarth 131s recorded victories in the following World Rally Championship events:

:{|class="wikitable" style="font-size: 95%; "
! No.
! Event
! Season
! Driver
! Co-driver
|-
| 1
| {{Flagicon|Finland}} 26th 1000 Lakes Rally
| 1976
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
| 2
| {{Flagicon|Portugal}} 10o Rallye de Portugal Vinho do Porto
| 1977
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
| 3
| {{Flagicon|New Zealand}} 8th South Pacific Rally
| 1977
| {{Flagicon|ITA}} Fulvio Bacchelli
| {{Flagicon|ITA}} Francesco Rossetti
|-
| 4
| {{Flagicon|Canada}} 5ème Critérium Molson du Québec
| 1977
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Timo Salonen
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Seppo Harjanne
|-
| 5
| {{Flagicon|Italy}} 19o Rallye Sanremo
| 1977
| {{Flagicon|FRA}} Jean-Claude Andruet
| {{Flagicon|FRA}} Christian Delferrier
|-
| 6
| {{Flagicon|France}} 21ème Tour de Corse
| 1977
| {{Flagicon|FRA}} Bernard Darniche
| {{Flagicon|FRA}} Alain Mahé
|-
| 7
| {{Flagicon|Portugal}} 11º Rallye de Portugal Vinho do Porto
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
| 8
| {{Flagicon|Greece}} 25th Acropolis Rally
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Walter Röhrl
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Christian Geistdörfer
|-
| 9
| {{Flagicon|Poland}} 38 Rajd Polski
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|ESP}} Antonio Zanini
| {{Flagicon|ESP}} Juan Petisco
|-
| 10
| {{Flagicon|Finland}} 28th 1000 Lakes Rally
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
| 11
| {{Flagicon|Canada}} 6ème Critérium Molson du Québec
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Walter Röhrl
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Christian Geistdörfer
|-
| 12
| {{Flagicon|France}} 37ème Tour de France Automobile
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|France}} Michèle Mouton
| {{Flagicon|France}} Françoise Conconi
|-
| 13
| {{Flagicon|France}} 22ème Tour de Corse
| 1978
| {{Flagicon|France}} Bernard Darniche
| {{Flagicon|France}} Alain Mahé
|-
| 14
| {{Flagicon|Finland}} 29th 1000 Lakes Rally
| 1979
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
| 15
| {{Flagicon|Monaco}} 48ème Rallye Automobile de Monte-Carlo
| 1980
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Walter Röhrl
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Christian Geistdörfer
|-
| 16
| {{Flagicon|Portugal}} 14o Rallye de Portugal Vinho do Porto
| 1980
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Walter Röhrl
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Christian Geistdörfer
|-
| 17
| {{Flagicon|Argentina}} 2o Rally Codasur
| 1980
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Walter Röhrl
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Christian Geistdörfer
|-
| 18
| {{Flagicon|Finland}} 30th 1000 Lakes Rally
| 1980
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
| 19
| {{Flagicon|Italy}} 22o Rallye Sanremo
| 1980
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Walter Röhrl
| {{Flagicon|GER}} Christian Geistdörfer
|-
| 20
| {{Flagicon|Portugal}} 15º Rallye de Portugal Vinho do Porto
| 1981
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Markku Alén
| {{Flagicon|FIN}} Ilkka Kivimäki
|-
|}

===Other motorsports===
In 1978, American actor James Brolin campaigned a Fiat 131 Abarth on a limited schedule in the GTU category of the IMSA GT Championship. The car carried sponsorship from Anheuser-Busch Natural Light beer, which had been introduced the previous year.

==Non-Italian 131 variations==
{{anchor|SEAT 131}}

===SEAT 131===
{{main|Engineering:SEAT 131}}
[[File:1980 seat 131.jpg|thumb|right|1980 SEAT 131, Salamanca, Spain]]
The [[Engineering:SEAT 131|SEAT 131]] started its production in early 1975 in Barcelona with two versions initially offered: SEAT 131 L, featuring rectangular front lamps, 1,438&nbsp;cc OHC engine and 4 speed gearbox and SEAT 131 E featuring four round headlamps, 1,592&nbsp;cc DOHC engine and 5 speed gearbox. The range grew up in 1976 with the SEAT 131 Familiar, estate version offered with both engines. In 1977 the 131 Automatico (Automatic gearbox) was released and the following year a very short production of the SEAT 131 CLX 1800 was offered.

In 1978, the SEAT 131 evolved into the SEAT 131 Mirafiori/Supermirafiori (Panorama for the estate versions), with the same changes as seen on its Italian cousin. The engines remained largely the same, but a 1.8 litre Diesel [[Engineering:List of Perkins engines|Perkins 4.108]] engine was available in 1979.

A further CLX special edition was launched in 1980. Available only in metallic silver or metallic bronze colours, this 131 CLX had a 1,919&nbsp;cc engine, developing {{convert|114|PS|kW|0|abbr=on}} at 5,800&nbsp;rpm.<ref>''Automobil Revue '80'', p. 472</ref>

In 1981, the Diesel version was developed with a new [[Engineering:Sofim|Sofim]] engine. This 2,500&nbsp;cc engine was much more powerful than the Perkins version (72&nbsp;hp against only 49&nbsp;hp) and was one of the most successful taxis in early '80s Spain.

In 1982, the SEAT 131 changed again, gathering all the body changes seen on the Fiat 131 series 3. The 131 was now available in CL, Supermirafiori and Diplomatic versions. The Diplomatic was the top of the range, with a 1,995&nbsp;cc engine and features such as power steering, power windows or air conditioning. The Panorama versions were the cars chosen by the "Cuerpo Nacional de Policia" (Spanish Police force) as patrol cars.

In 1984, the SEAT 131 range was discontinued, without a direct substitute and the [[Engineering:Fiat Ritmo|Fiat Ritmo]]-based [[Engineering:SEAT Málaga|SEAT Málaga]] took its place in 1985.

===Murat 131===
{{main|Engineering:Tofaş Şahin}}
Turkish Automotive Factories Incorporated (Tofaş) in [[Place:Turkey|Turkey]] started the production of Fiat 131s built under Fiat license with the '''Murat 131''' ''(Turkish: Desire)'' nameplate.  Later, Fiat 131 based ''"Bird Series"'' were developed and built in [[Place:Bursa|Bursa]], [[Place:Turkey|Turkey]]. The base version of ''"Bird Series"'' was named as '''Murat 131''' '''Şahin''' ''(Turkish: Hawk''), luxury version was as '''Murat 131''' '''Doğan''' ''(Turkish: Falcon)'' and the estate version was named as '''Murat 131''' '''Kartal''' ''(Turkish: Eagle)''. These vehicles enjoyed a very long production run (1986–2002 at Turkey, 1991–2009 at Egypt, 2006–2010 at Ethiopia), and were later replaced by newer Fiat models.

===Polski Fiat 131p===
Assembly of the 131 sedan was also undertaken in {{wipe|Poland}} by Fabryka Samochodów Osobowych (FSO) in the years 1975 to 1981, and 3102 were assembled in total.<ref name=podbielski>Podbielski, Zdzisław (2019). ''Samochody montażowe z Żerania'', "Auto Świat Classic" Nr 4/2019, p. 136-137 (Polish)</ref> They were often used by state institutions and communist party officials.<ref name=podbielski/> First series cars were available only in Special trim and were called Polski Fiat 131p Mirafiori. Cars of second series were known under the name Fiat 131p Mirafiori and were offered in L and CL trim levels.

===Other producers===
The Fiat 131 was also produced at Helwan, in [[Place:Egypt|Egypt]], by El Nasr since at least 1982,<ref name=WorldCars1982>{{Cite book| title = World Cars 1982 | publisher = The Automobile Club of Italy/Herald Books | location = Pelham, NY | pages = 403 | year = 1982 | isbn = 0-910714-14-2 }}</ref> on the basis of complete knockdown (CKD) kits. This was followed by CKD assembly of the Tofaş Murat 131 between 1991 and 2009. The Tofaş Murat 131 has also been assembled in Ethiopia by Holland Car between 2006 and 2010.

Other CKD production of the Fiat 131 has taken place in the following countries:<ref name=WorldCars1982/>
* Córdoba; '''{{wipe|Argentina}}''', FIAT Córdoba.
* Bogotá, '''Colombia'''; (''Compañía Colombiana Automotriz'').
* [[Place:San José, Costa Rica|San José]], '''Costa Rica''' (''S.A.V.A.'').
* [[Place:Jakarta|Jakarta]], '''Indonesia''' (''P.T. Daha Motor'', Saloon and Station Wagon).<ref name=TAM85/>
* [[Place:Kuala Lumpur|Kuala Lumpur]], '''Malaysia'''.<ref>''Tutte le Auto del Mondo 77/78'', p. 197</ref>
* [[Place:Casablanca|Casablanca]], '''Morocco''' (''SOMACA'').
* [[Place:Lisbon|Lisbon]], '''Portugal''' (''Fiat Portuguesa SARL, Somave Sarl''<ref name=WorldCars1984>{{Cite book| title = World Cars 1984 | publisher = L'Editrice dell'Automobile LEA/Herald Books | location = Pelham, NY | pages = 403 | year = 1984 | isbn = 0-910714-16-9 }}</ref>)
* '''[[Place:Singapore|Singapore]]''' (Sharikat Fiat Distributors).
* [[Place:Bangkok|Bangkok]], '''Thailand''' (''Karnasuta General Assembly Co.'').
* [[Place:Caracas|Caracas]], '''Venezuela''' (''FIAT de Venezuela C.A.'').
* [[Place:Livingstone, Zambia|Livingstone]], '''Zambia''' (''Livingstone Motor Assemblers Ltd'')

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.131mirafiori.com/ 131mirafiori.com]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070706053826/http://www.131abarth.com/fiat_131_abarth.htm 131abarth.com]
* [http://italiahaven.boards.net/ Italia.Haven: Irish and European forum for Fiat owners]

== See also ==
* [[Engineering:Fiat Marengo|Fiat Marengo]]

{{Fiat}}
{{Modern European Fiat vehicles}}

[[Category:Mid-size cars]]
[[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Sedans]]
[[Category:Station wagons]]

{{Sourceattribution|Fiat 131}}