1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 32 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 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1036 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, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 126 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| 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 | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 70 L |
