1979 Fiat 126 vs. 1970 Triumph 1300
To start off, 1979 Fiat 126 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Triumph 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Triumph 1300 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Triumph 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Triumph 1300 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Triumph 1300 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Triumph 1300 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, 1970 Triumph 1300, 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, 1970 Triumph 1300 (102 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Triumph 1300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 1970 Triumph 1300 | |
| Make | Fiat | Triumph |
| Model | 126 | 1300 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2460 mm |
