1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1984 Lancia Thema is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Thema (148 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Thema weights approximately 575 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema, 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, 1984 Lancia Thema (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |
