1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2006 Peugeot 407 is newer by 34 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 2,230 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Peugeot 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Peugeot 407 (156 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Peugeot 407 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 955 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, 2006 Peugeot 407, 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, 2006 Peugeot 407 (217 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2006 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 126 | 407 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2230 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 66 L |
