1971 Fiat 127 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 127. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 830 kg more than 1971 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 127, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 127 | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 127 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
