1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2001 Fiat Duna
To start off, 2001 Fiat Duna is newer by 22 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 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Fiat Duna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Fiat Duna (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Fiat Duna should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Fiat Duna weights approximately 345 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, 2001 Fiat Duna, 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, 2001 Fiat Duna (105 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Fiat Duna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2001 Fiat Duna | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Duna |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2370 mm |
