1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 31 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 382 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, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 2003 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2003 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 962 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 40 L |
