1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Honda Civic
To start off, 2006 Honda Civic is newer by 32 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Civic weights approximately 685 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, 2006 Honda Civic, 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, 2006 Honda Civic (175 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2006 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Fiat | Honda |
| Model | 126 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 50 L |
