1985 Fiat 126 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1985 Fiat 126. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 352 kg more than 1985 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat 126 | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2560 mm |
