1979 Fiat 127 vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 903 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForTwo (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 127.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 2005 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2005 Smart ForTwo (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 127 | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 127 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 1820 mm |
