1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2012 Ferrari California
To start off, 2012 Ferrari California is newer by 31 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 4,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ferrari California is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ferrari California (460 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 411 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ferrari California should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ferrari California weights approximately 905 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 2012 Ferrari California 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 2012 Ferrari California. 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, 2012 Ferrari California (483 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ferrari California will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2012 Ferrari California | |
| Make | Fiat | Ferrari |
| Model | 127 | California |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 460 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4562 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1308 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
