1985 Fiat 126 vs. 1998 Proton 400
To start off, 1998 Proton 400 is newer by 13 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1985 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Proton 400 weights approximately 408 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, 1998 Proton 400, 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, 1998 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat 126 | 1998 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 126 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
