1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 485 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, 2003 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (76 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Fiat | Saturn |
| Model | 127 | L |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
