1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Rover Streetwise

To start off, 2008 Rover Streetwise is newer by 29 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Rover Streetwise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Rover Streetwise (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Rover Streetwise should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Rover Streetwise weights approximately 865 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, 2008 Rover Streetwise, 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, 2008 Rover Streetwise (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Rover Streetwise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Fiat 126 2008 Rover Streetwise
Make Fiat Rover
Model 126 Streetwise
Year Released 1979 2008
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 652 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 24 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 42 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 84.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 70 mm 88.9 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 585 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 3130 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1390 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 1850 mm 2510 mm