1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 29 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 326 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, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 2003 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2003 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 40 L |
