1977 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 845 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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 126 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 68 L |
