1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2001 Fiat Stilo
To start off, 2001 Fiat Stilo is newer by 21 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Fiat Stilo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Fiat Stilo (131 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Fiat Stilo should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Fiat Stilo weights approximately 711 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, 2001 Fiat Stilo, 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, 2001 Fiat Stilo (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Fiat Stilo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2001 Fiat Stilo | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Stilo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2550 mm |
