1979 Fiat 126 vs. 1971 Fiat 128
To start off, 1979 Fiat 126 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 1,115 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Fiat 128 (63 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 128 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 128 weights approximately 235 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, 1971 Fiat 128, 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, 1971 Fiat 128 (83 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Fiat 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 126 | 1971 Fiat 128 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 126 | 128 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1115 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 83 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 55.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2230 mm |