1977 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Lexus ES
To start off, 1997 Lexus ES is newer by 20 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 950 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, 1997 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 1997 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Fiat | Lexus |
| Model | 126 | ES |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| 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 | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2680 mm |
