1981 Fiat 131 vs. 1978 Fiat 127
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1978 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 1978 Fiat 127 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | 127 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 903 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2230 mm |
