1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 38 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 818 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, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 126 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 76 L |
