1978 Fiat 127 vs. 1996 Honda Civic
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Civic (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Civic weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Honda Civic (144 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 127 | 1996 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Fiat | Honda |
| Model | 127 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2630 mm |
