1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2000 Lotus Extreme
To start off, 2000 Lotus Extreme is newer by 21 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 700 cc, 2000 Lotus Extreme is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Lotus Extreme (120 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Lotus Extreme should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 126 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2000 Lotus Extreme.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2000 Lotus Extreme (180 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2000 Lotus Extreme will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2000 Lotus Extreme | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 126 | Extreme |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 700 cc |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2420 mm |
