1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 2004 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 26 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 1,755 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 475 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, 2004 Fiat Barchetta, 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 Fiat Barchetta (162 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 126 | 2004 Fiat Barchetta | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 126 | Barchetta |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 651 cc | 1755 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2280 mm |