1981 Fiat 127 vs. 1987 Fiat 126
To start off, 1987 Fiat 126 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,300 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 127 (74 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 127 should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 127 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1987 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Fiat 126 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 1987 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Fiat 127 (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 127 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 1987 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 127 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 56 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 1850 mm |
