1978 Fiat 126 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 355 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1986 Volkswagen Passat (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2560 mm |
