1983 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,123 cc (3 cylinders), 2006 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForFour (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 126.
Because 1983 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 1983 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour, 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, 2006 Smart ForFour (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 126 | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 126 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 650 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
