1979 Fiat 126 vs. 1977 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1979 Fiat 126 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,117 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Ford Fiesta (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 141 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, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1977 Ford Fiesta (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 1977 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 65 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 726 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2300 mm |
