1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus is newer by 27 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 713 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, 2005 Ford Taurus, 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, 2005 Ford Taurus (266 Nm) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2005 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2870 mm |
