1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Lada 21
To start off, 2009 Lada 21 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lada 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lada 21 (80 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lada 21 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada 21 weights approximately 485 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 Lada 21, 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 Lada 21 (120 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lada 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2009 Lada 21 | |
| Make | Fiat | Lada |
| Model | 126 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2500 mm |
