1977 Fiat 127 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 31 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 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 692 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 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 127 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 127 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1048 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 61 L |
