1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 31 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 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 607 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.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 126 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 57 L |
