1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Fiat Stilo
To start off, 2004 Fiat Stilo is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Stilo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Stilo (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Stilo should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Stilo weights approximately 900 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Stilo (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Stilo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 2004 Fiat Stilo | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Stilo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
