1996 Fiat Panda vs. 1981 Fiat 127
To start off, 1996 Fiat Panda is newer by 15 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 1,300 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 127 (74 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 127 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 127 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1996 Fiat Panda. 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, 1981 Fiat 127 (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 127 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 1981 Fiat 127 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 127 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 56 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2230 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |
