1970 Fiat 124 vs. 2008 Toyota Matrix

To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 1671 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2008 Toyota Matrix (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Fiat 124 2008 Toyota Matrix
Make Fiat Toyota
Model 124 Matrix
Year Released 1970 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1197 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 89 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 2581 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1570 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 L 50 L