1976 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Lancia K
To start off, 1997 Lancia K is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Lancia K is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia K (155 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia K should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia K weights approximately 860 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lancia K, 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, 1997 Lancia K (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia K will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 1997 Lancia K | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | K |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 70 L |
