1974 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Renault Espace
To start off, 1999 Renault Espace is newer by 25 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Espace (112 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Espace weights approximately 910 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, 1999 Renault Espace, 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, 1999 Renault Espace (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 1999 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
