1974 Fiat 126 vs. 1984 Ford Orion
To start off, 1984 Ford Orion is newer by 10 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 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ford Orion (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Ford Orion weights approximately 370 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, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, 1984 Ford Orion (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Ford Orion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 1984 Ford Orion | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Orion |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
