1972 Fiat 127 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (53 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 127. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 277 kg more than 1972 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 127 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 127 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 688 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2500 mm |
