1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2003 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 22 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1040 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.

Because 2003 Ford Thunderbird 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 127 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 127 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Fiat 127 2003 Ford Thunderbird
Make Fiat Ford
Model 127 Thunderbird
Year Released 1981 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 903 cc 3934 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 44 HP 249 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 65 Nm 388 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 705 kg 1745 kg
Vehicle Length 3650 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1530 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2230 mm 2730 mm


 

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