1986 Fiat 126 vs. 1983 Fiat 127
To start off, 1986 Fiat 126 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,048 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Fiat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Fiat 127 (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Fiat 127 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Fiat 127 weights approximately 245 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, 1983 Fiat 127, 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, 1983 Fiat 127 (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Fiat 127 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat 126 | 1983 Fiat 127 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | 127 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1048 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 67.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 68 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2230 mm |
