1979 Fiat 126 vs. 1969 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1979 Fiat 126 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Peugeot 304 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Peugeot 304 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Peugeot 304, 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, 1969 Peugeot 304 (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Peugeot 304 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 1969 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 126 | 304 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2600 mm |
