1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2003 Peugeot 407 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 2,944 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Peugeot 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Peugeot 407 (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Peugeot 407 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 1060 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 Peugeot 407, 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 Peugeot 407 (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2003 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 126 | 407 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 2944 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 45 L |
