1977 Fiat 126 vs. 1996 Proton Persona
To start off, 1996 Proton Persona is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton Persona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton Persona (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton Persona should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton Persona weights approximately 380 kg more than 1977 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Proton Persona, 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, 1996 Proton Persona (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Proton Persona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 1996 Proton Persona | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 126 | Persona |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 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 | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
