1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 17 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 795 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, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (267 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 126 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2730 mm |
