1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 522 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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
