1977 Fiat 127 vs. 1981 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 1981 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Ritmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 127. (70 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat Ritmo weights approximately 205 kg more than 1977 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Fiat 127 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 1977 Fiat 127. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo, 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, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 127. (83 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat Ritmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 127 | 1981 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 127 | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1047 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 57 L |
