1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1976 Fiat 126
To start off, 1983 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,568 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Fiat Ritmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Fiat Ritmo (98 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Fiat Ritmo should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Fiat Ritmo weights approximately 325 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Fiat Ritmo, 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 Fiat Ritmo (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1983 Fiat Ritmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat Ritmo | 1976 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Ritmo | 126 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 20 L |
