1987 Fiat 126 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1722 kg more than 1987 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Fiat 126 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
