1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2003 TVR Chimaera is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 480 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2003 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Fiat | TVR |
| Model | 126 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 57 L |
