1986 Fiat 126 vs. 1996 Seat Ibiza
To start off, 1996 Seat Ibiza is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 999 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Seat Ibiza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Seat Ibiza (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Seat Ibiza should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Seat Ibiza weights approximately 350 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, 1996 Seat Ibiza, 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, 1996 Seat Ibiza (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Seat Ibiza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat 126 | 1996 Seat Ibiza | |
| Make | Fiat | Seat |
| Model | 126 | Ibiza |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 67.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 70.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2450 mm |
