1978 Fiat 127 vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 502 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.
Because 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 127 | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 127 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1207 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2340 mm |
