1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Scion xA
To start off, 2005 Scion xA is newer by 26 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 1,495 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Scion xA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Scion xA (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Scion xA weights approximately 485 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, 2005 Scion xA, 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, 2005 Scion xA (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Scion xA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2005 Scion xA | |
| Make | Fiat | Scion |
| Model | 126 | xA |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2380 mm |
