1987 BMW Z1 vs. 1981 Fiat 127
To start off, 1987 BMW Z1 is newer by 6 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 BMW Z1 weights approximately 420 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 1987 BMW Z1 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 1987 BMW Z1. 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, 1987 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 1981 Fiat 127 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | Z1 | 127 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 67.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 68 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2230 mm |
