1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2011 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2011 Ford Fiesta is newer by 39 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Fiesta (120 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 571 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, 2011 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2011 Ford Fiesta (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2011 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| 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 | 1151 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4067 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1697 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 45 L |
