1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Ford Focus
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Focus (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 620 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, 2002 Ford Focus, 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, 2002 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2002 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
