1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 35 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1727 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 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 80 L |
