1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 36 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 386 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, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Focus (132 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
