1971 Fiat 127 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 41 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 1,049 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Smart ForTwo (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 127. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 127.
Because 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 2012 Smart ForTwo. 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, 2012 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 127. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 127 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 127 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 127 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 127 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
