1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2013 Smart Fortwo
To start off, 2013 Smart Fortwo is newer by 40 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 1,000 cc (3 cylinders), 2013 Smart Fortwo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Smart Fortwo (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Smart Fortwo should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2013 Smart Fortwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Smart Fortwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126. 2013 Smart Fortwo has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Smart Fortwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2013 Smart Fortwo | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 126 | Fortwo |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
