1979 Fiat 126 vs. 1986 Fiat Croma
To start off, 1986 Fiat Croma is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,583 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Fiat Croma (81 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 510 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, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (127 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 1986 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Croma |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |
