1984 Austin Montego vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 1984 Austin Montego is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,257 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Austin Montego is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Austin Montego (67 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Austin Montego should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Austin Montego weights approximately 370 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Austin Montego, 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, 1984 Austin Montego (99 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Austin Montego will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Montego | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Montego | 126 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 1850 mm |
