1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,712 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint weights approximately 333 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint, 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Alfa Romeo Sprint | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | Sprint | 126 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1712 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 1850 mm |
