1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 8 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 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (129 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 861 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | 126 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2740 mm |
