1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Volvo V40 is newer by 29 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V40 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V40 weights approximately 790 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, 2005 Volvo V40, 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, 2005 Volvo V40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 2005 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 126 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 60 L |
