1986 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 23 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 504 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (123 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat 126 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1089 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |
