1981 Fiat 127 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 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 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta (53 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 40 kg more than 1981 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, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (76 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 127 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2480 mm |
