1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Fiat 500
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 31 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 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat 500 weights approximately 420 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, 2009 Fiat 500, 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, 2009 Fiat 500 (132 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2009 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2310 mm |
