1983 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1979 Fiat 126
To start off, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1979 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 33 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 1850 mm |
