1974 Fiat 126 vs. 1976 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 1976 Lancia Gamma is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Lancia Gamma (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Gamma should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Lancia Gamma weights approximately 690 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Lancia Gamma, 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, 1976 Lancia Gamma (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1976 Lancia Gamma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 1976 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | Gamma |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 91.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 76 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2480 mm |
