1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 33 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 1420 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, 2006 Kia Optima, 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | 126 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 65 L |
