1977 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 26 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 658 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru R2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru R2 (52 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru R2 weights approximately 230 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, 2003 Subaru R2, 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, 2003 Subaru R2 (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru R2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Subaru |
| Model | 126 | R2 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 56 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 30 L |
