1980 Fiat 127 vs. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 135 kg more than 1980 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat 127 | 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 127 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1049 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 77 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 67.2 mm | 78.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2270 mm |