1978 Fiat 126 vs. 1988 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1988 Ford Meteor is newer by 10 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Meteor (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Meteor should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126.
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, 1988 Ford Meteor, 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, 1988 Ford Meteor (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 1988 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
