1977 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 27 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 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 952 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 2004 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 126 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 3177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 289 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2550 mm |
