1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto is newer by 34 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), 2012 Fiat Grande Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Grande Punto weights approximately 695 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, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Grande Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2012 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| 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 | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 72.1 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 | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
