1982 Fiat 126 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 665 kg more than 1982 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 126 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |
