1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 27 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 390 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1781 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 509 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3010 mm |
