1986 Fiat 126 vs. 1973 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1986 Fiat 126 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1973 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1986 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1973 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126. 1973 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1986 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1986 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat 126 | 1973 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Fiat | NSU |
| Model | 126 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2870 mm |
