1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1996 Lancia Ypsilon
To start off, 1996 Lancia Ypsilon is newer by 16 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 1,241 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lancia Ypsilon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lancia Ypsilon (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Ypsilon should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Ypsilon weights approximately 275 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, 1996 Lancia Ypsilon, 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, 1996 Lancia Ypsilon (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lancia Ypsilon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1996 Lancia Ypsilon | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | Ypsilon |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2390 mm |
