1997 Ferrari F355 vs. 1981 Fiat 127
To start off, 1997 Ferrari F355 is newer by 16 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 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 332 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 515 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 1997 Ferrari F355 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 1997 Ferrari F355. 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, 1997 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (75 Nm). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ferrari F355 | 1981 Fiat 127 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Fiat |
| Model | F355 | 127 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 20.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2230 mm |
