1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 28 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1719 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 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2006 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3010 mm |
