1972 Fiat 126 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 913 kg more than 1972 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 126 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Fiat | Volvo |
Model | 126 | 850 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 2461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1493 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |