1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 23 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 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForFour weights approximately 135 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, 2004 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (75 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 127 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1301 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 75 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2510 mm |
