1972 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 27 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 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 500 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, 1999 Renault Megane, 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, 1999 Renault Megane (133 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 60 L |
