1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 770 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 62 L |
