1969 Fiat 128 vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 1974 Fiat 126 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 1,115 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Fiat 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Fiat 128 (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 128 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Fiat 128 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 126 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 128, 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, 1969 Fiat 128 (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1969 Fiat 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 128 | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 128 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 20 L |
