1978 Fiat 127 vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 30 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 456 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 372 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 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 588 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 127 | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 127 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 652 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2730 mm |
