1981 Fiat Panda vs. 1987 Fiat 126
To start off, 1987 Fiat 126 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 843 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Panda (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat Panda weights approximately 105 kg more than 1987 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Panda, 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, 1981 Fiat Panda (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Panda | 1987 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 126 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 1850 mm |
