1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 602 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 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (202 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 53 L |
