1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 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 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 837 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 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
