1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Ford Laser is newer by 28 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Laser (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Laser weights approximately 535 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, 2004 Ford Laser, 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, 2004 Ford Laser (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 2004 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
