1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1135 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat 126 | 2010 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 126 | 159 |
Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 2387 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |