1985 Fiat Regata vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 1985 Fiat Regata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,568 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Fiat Regata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Fiat Regata (100 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Fiat Regata should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Fiat Regata weights approximately 415 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Fiat Regata, 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, 1985 Fiat Regata (136 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Fiat Regata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat Regata | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Regata | 126 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 1850 mm |
