1981 Seat 127 vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Seat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Seat 127 would be higher. At 1,000 cc (3 cylinders), 2009 Smart ForTwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Smart ForTwo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Seat 127. (47 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1981 Seat 127.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 2009 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Seat 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, 2009 Smart ForTwo (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Seat 127. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Seat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Seat 127 | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Seat | Smart |
| Model | 127 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 901 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 1870 mm |
