1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Lancia Lybra
To start off, 2003 Lancia Lybra is newer by 25 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 1,581 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lancia Lybra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lancia Lybra (103 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lancia Lybra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lancia Lybra weights approximately 705 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, 2003 Lancia Lybra, 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 Lancia Lybra (144 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Lancia Lybra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2003 Lancia Lybra | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | Lybra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1581 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2600 mm |
