1986 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 20 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1130 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 2006 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (330 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126. 2006 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat 126 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
