1982 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 1999 Ford Fiesta is newer by 17 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 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Fiesta (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 335 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, 1999 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1999 Ford Fiesta (174 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Fiat 126 1999 Ford Fiesta
Make Fiat Ford
Model 126 Fiesta
Year Released 1982 1999
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 652 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 24 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 42 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 70 mm 75.5 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 585 kg 920 kg
Vehicle Length 3130 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1390 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 1850 mm 2450 mm