1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 40 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 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat Panda (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Panda weights approximately 560 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 2012 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Fiat Panda (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 35 L |
