Fiat 131 Supermirafiori (1978-81)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel
The **Fiat 131 Supermirafiori**—a classic Italian ride that has its quirks and charms!

1. **Gearbox Whining**:
- Some Supermirafiori owners have reported whining noises in the intermediate and fifth gears. It seems the gearbox isn't always the strong silent type. Perhaps it's just expressing its feelings about those long highway drives!

2. **Lack of Low-Speed Torque**:
- The Supermirafiori isn't exactly a torque monster. Its lack of low-speed grunt means you might need to do a bit of rowing along (metaphorically speaking) to achieve a reasonable standard of performance.
- So, if you're expecting neck-snapping acceleration off the line, you might be disappointed. But hey, it's all about the journey, right?

3. **Placement and Parking Ease**:
- On the bright side, the Supermirafiori has large windows and a low waistline, which translates to excellent all-around visibility.
- Parking this square package is a breeze—you'll feel like a pro at parallel parking.

4. **Mediocre Overall Performance**:
- Overall, the Supermirafiori falls somewhere in the middle. It won't thrill the speed demons, nor will it lull the leisurely drivers into a nap.
- But hey, it's got character, and sometimes that's what matters most.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

1. **131 Miraflores (Normale or Standard)**:
- The entry-level version of the 131 was known as the **131 Mirafiori** (also referred to as "Normale" or "Standard").
- It came with single square headlamps, wheels, and dished hubcaps borrowed from its predecessor, the Fiat 124.
- Inside, the furnishings were kept relatively simple.

2. **Supermirafiori**:
- In 1978, the range received a facelift, and that's when the **Supermirafiori** made its debut.
- The Supermirafiori was a significant step up from the base model. It boasted several desirable features for its time:
- **Engine**: Equipped with a 1.6-liter twin-cam engine, which added a bit of pep to its performance.
- **Gearbox**: A five-speed manual gearbox, which was quite advanced compared to the typical Morris Marina.
- **Overall Appeal**: It was a hit in Italy, with close to two million units sold, but unfortunately, it didn't receive as much attention elsewhere.

3. **Later Facelift**:
- In 1982, the Supermirafiori underwent another facelift.
- At this point, it was newly offered with a 2.0-liter twin-cam engine shared with the legendary 131 TC (Turismo Competizione), albeit in a softer state of tune.
- Today, the Supermirafiori is desirable among classic car enthusiasts, partly due to its endangered species status—finding one in good condition is like discovering a rare gem.
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Engines

1. **1.4-Litre Engine**:
- The entry-level Supermirafiori came with a modest 1.4-litre engine. It wasn't exactly a fire-breather, but it got the job done for those who preferred a more economical ride.

2. **1.6-Litre Twin-Cam Engine**:
- The sweet spot for many Supermirafiori enthusiasts was the 1.6-litre twin-cam engine. This gem provided a delightful blend of performance and reliability.
- With its dual overhead camshafts and eager demeanor, it was like the espresso shot in your morning coffee—a little kick to get you going!

3. **2.0-Litre Twin-Cam Engine**:
- Later in the Supermirafiori's life, it received an upgrade. The 2.0-litre twin-cam engine stepped onto the stage.
- This larger powerplant brought a bit more muscle to the party. It wasn't a raging bull, but it had enough oomph to put a smile on your face during spirited drives.

4. **Rally Works Version**:
- Now, hold onto your driving gloves! In the rally works version, the Supermirafiori flexed its muscles even further.
- Fitted with a 16V engine boasting a capacity of 1995 cc, it churned out 140 PS in the road version. But wait, there's more! The rally-spec versions cranked up the power—up to 210 PS (with a carburettor engine) or a whopping 235 PS (thanks to Kugelfischer injection).
- Imagine that—your grocery-getter turning into a rally beast when the checkered flag drops!

5. **Transmission**:
- Most Supermirafioris came with a five-speed manual gearbox. Shifting gears was like composing a symphony—you had to hit the right notes at the right time.

6. **Suspension**:
- Underneath, the Supermirafiori danced on an independent rear suspension. It waltzed through corners with grace, even if it wasn't a prima ballerina.
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Performance
The Fiat 131 Supermirafiori offered respectable performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Engine Options**:
- 1.3L Inline-4: 75 horsepower
- 1.6L Inline-4: 97 horsepower

- **Top Speed**:
- 1.3L: Approximately 96 mph (154 km/h)
- 1.6L: Approximately 106 mph (170 km/h)

- **Acceleration (0-60 mph / 0-100 km/h)**:
- 1.3L: Around 13.8 seconds
- 1.6L: Around 11.7 seconds

- **Fuel Economy**:
- Combined: Approximately 26.7 mpg US (8.8 L/100 km)

These figures made the Fiat 131 Supermirafiori a competitive option in the mid-size family car market, offering a blend of performance and practicality.
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Rivals
Here are the performance figures for some of the Fiat 131 Supermirafiori's main rivals in 1978:

### Ford Cortina (South Africa)
- **Engine**: 3.0-litre V6
- **Power**: 134 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 112 mph (181 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) Acceleration**: Around 10.1 seconds

### Vauxhall Cavalier
- **Engine**: 1.6-litre Inline-4
- **Power**: 74 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 100 mph (161 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) Acceleration**: Around 13.5 seconds

### Morris Marina
- **Engine**: 1.8-litre Inline-4
- **Power**: 84 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 90 mph (145 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) Acceleration**: Around 15 seconds

### Austin Allegro
- **Engine**: 1.5-litre Inline-4
- **Power**: 70 horsepower
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 90 mph (145 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) Acceleration**: Around 16 seconds

These figures highlight the competitive performance of the Fiat 131 Supermirafiori's main rivals in the mid-size family car market.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Fiat 131 Supermirafiori was designed by Rodolfo Bonetto and Giancarlo Iliprandi.

Here are the dimensions of the Fiat 131 Supermirafiori:

- **Length**: 4,230 to 4,264 mm (166.5 to 167.9 inches)
- **Width**: 1,644 to 1,651 mm (64.7 to 65.0 inches)
- **Height**: 1,381 to 1,411 mm (54.4 to 55.6 inches)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,490 mm (98.0 inches)
- **Curb Weight**: 950 to 1,145 kg (2,094 to 2,524 lbs)

These dimensions contributed to its practical and stylish design, making it a popular choice in its era.
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Spares/Specialists
If you're on the lookout for **Fiat 131 Supermirafiori** spares in the UK or Ireland, fear not—we've got a few leads for you:

1. **Classic Engine Parts**:
- Located in Worcestershire, England, **Classic Engine Parts** specializes in—you guessed it—classic engine components.
- They have a section specifically for the **Fiat 131 Supermirafiori, Racing 2000 (up to May 1981)**.
- You can find bearings, bushes, and other essential bits to keep your Supermirafiori purring like a contented Italian cat.
- [Here's their website](https://www.classicengineparts.co.uk/vehicles/fiat-131-supermirafiori-racing-2000-to-may-1981) where you can explore their offerings¹.

2. **Genuine Fiat Spare Parts**:
- For original Fiat parts, check out the official **Fiat Spare Parts** catalog.
- Whether you need a gasket, a widget, or a thingamajig, they've got you covered.
- [Here's the link](https://www.fiat.co.uk/owners/fiat-spare-parts) to their virtual parts counter.

3. **eBay**:
- Ah, the digital bazaar where treasures await! On **eBay**, you might stumble upon Supermirafiori parts from sellers across the UK and Ireland.
- Search for "Fiat 131 Supermirafiori" to see what pops up. You might find that elusive alternator or a repair manual to guide you through the intricacies of Italian engineering.
- [Here's the eBay search](https://www.ebay.ie/sch/Car-Parts-Accessories-/6030/i.html?_nkw=fiat+131+supermirafiori) to kick off your scavenger hunt.

4. **Repair Manuals**:
- Speaking of manuals, if you're a DIY enthusiast, consider grabbing a repair manual for your Supermirafiori.
- There's one listed on eBay for the **FIAT 131 Supermirafiori Mirafiori 1300 1600 2000** from 1980. It's like having an Italian mechanic whispering tips in your ear.
- [Check it out here](https://www.ebay.ie/sch/Cars-Motorcycles-Vehicles-/9800/i.html?_nkw=fiat+131+supermirafiori).
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Racing
The **Fiat 131 Supermirafiori**—a car that not only cruised the streets but also danced its way through rally stages!

1. **131 Mirafiori Racing (Mirafiori Sport)**:
- In 1978, Fiat introduced the **131 Mirafiori Racing** (known as **Mirafiori Sport** in the UK). This was the 2-door sporting version that aimed to emulate the rally prowess of its rally-spec siblings.
- Sporting a 115 PS (85 kW) twin-cam engine, the Mirafiori Racing was ready to hit the tarmac with gusto.
- Its distinctive features included four round headlights (with the inner ones smaller than the outer ones), a different grille, spoilers, extended wheel arches, and a short-throw 5-speed gearbox.
- Imagine it—a road car with a hint of rally spirit, ready to tackle corners like a seasoned rally driver!

2. **World Rally Success**:
- Before the Mirafiori Racing hit the scene, the Fiat 131 had already tasted victory. In 1977, it clinched its first world rally crown.
- The rally versions of the 131 were true stars, battling through mud, gravel, and snow. Names like Walter Röhrl and Markku Alén piloted these beasts to glory.

3. **Italian Flair on the Rally Stages**:
- The 131 Supermirafiori wasn't just about commuting—it had a wild side. Its rally variants, with their roaring engines and nimble handling, left their tire marks on rally courses around the world.
- Whether it was the Monte Carlo Rally or the Acropolis Rally, the Supermirafiori danced through hairpins and straights, thrilling fans and drivers alike.
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Valuation
The value of a Fiat 131 Supermirafiori in the UK today can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and originality. Generally, you can expect to find prices ranging from £3,716 to £16,029. Prices can be higher for models in exceptional condition or with unique features.
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Clubs
There are clubs in Northern Ireland and Ireland that cater to Fiat 131 Supermirafiori owners. Here are a few options:

### Northern Ireland:
1. **[Fiat Forum](https://www.fiatforum.com/threads/fiat-131-mirafiori-calling-all-owners.467773/)**: This forum has a section for Fiat 131 Mirafiori owners, where you can connect with other enthusiasts.
2. **[Donnelly Group](https://www.donnellygroup.co.uk/fiat/locations/mallusk/)**: While not specifically a club, they are a major Fiat dealer in Northern Ireland and can provide support and connections with other Fiat owners.

### Ireland:
1. **[Fiat 131 Mirafiori - Calling all Owners](https://www.fiatforum.com/threads/fiat-131-mirafiori-calling-all-owners.467773/)**: This forum thread is dedicated to Fiat 131 Mirafiori owners and enthusiasts in Ireland.
2. **[Classic Fiat Ireland](https://www.facebook.com/groups/161929843981595/posts/2650609201780301/)**: This Facebook group is for classic Fiat enthusiasts, including those with the Fiat 131 Supermirafiori.

These clubs and communities can provide valuable resources, support, and connections with other Fiat enthusiasts.
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