1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2007 Ford Focus
To start off, 2007 Ford Focus is newer by 34 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Focus weights approximately 600 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, 2007 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, 2007 Ford Focus (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
