1983 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 860 kg more than 1983 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 126. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1983 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1983 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 126 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 650 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
