1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 735 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 Saturn L, 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 126 | 2004 Saturn L | |
Make | Fiat | Saturn |
Model | 126 | L |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 651 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2630 mm |