1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 is newer by 39 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Peugeot 408 (147 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408 should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126.
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, 2012 Peugeot 408, 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, 2012 Peugeot 408 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Peugeot 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 126 | 408 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
