1973 Fiat 127 vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 903 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Smart Roadster weights approximately 180 kg more than 1973 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Smart Roadster 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 2003 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2003 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 127. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 127 | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 127 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2370 mm |
